Hispanics, who constitute the largest minority group in this nation, have participated with distinction in every military conflict in which the United States has been involved from the American Revolution to the present day. During World War II, Hispanics fought in every major battle in the European Theatre, from North Africa to the Battle of the Bulge, in the Pacific Theater, from Bataan to Okinawa. Unfortunately, up until during the Korean War, the Department of Defense classified Hispanics as Caucasians, and thus official statistics recognizing Hispanic contributions are not available. As a result of the lack of documentation, the heroic deeds and contributions that Hispanics have made to our great nation are rarely found in our history books; and therefore, it is of no surprise that many of us (especially our children) are unaware of the contributions and sacrifices made by Hispanic-Americans so that everyone in this nation can enjoy the freedoms which we all have as Americans.

The term "Hispanic" in the United States is one of several terms of ethnicity employed to categorize any person, of any racial background, of any country and of any religion who has at least one ancestor from the people of Spain or Spanish-speaking Latin America, whether or not the person has Spanish ancestry. The three largest Hispanic groups in this nation are the Mexican-Americans, Puerto Ricans and Cubans. Hispanics also include people from the Caribbean and South and Central America.

When a Japanese Imperial Navy carrier fleet launched an unexpected attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Hispanics were among the first to bear arms in defense of the United States. They filled the ranks of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, either as volunteers or as a result of the draft. As members of the Armed Forces, they guarded U.S. military installations in the Caribbean and were active combat participation in both the European and Pacific Theatres of the war. Patriotic participation included not only the battlefields on foreign shores, but also included the home front. This was especially true for the hundreds of women who joined the WAACS and WAVES, serving either as nurses or in administrative positions, and those who worked in the manufacturing plants which produced munitions and material (commonly known as "Rosie the Riveter") during the war, while the men, who traditionally performed this work, were engaged in combat.

According to the National Museum of World War II, between 250, 000 and 500, 000 Hispanic men and women served in the Armed Forces during WW II. However, this is a rough estimate and unfortunately the exact number of those who served will never be known. The only racial groups to have separate stats kept were African-Americans and Asian-Americans. Puerto Ricans and the Hispanics who resided in the island of Puerto Rico were assigned to the 65th Infantry Regiment or to the Puerto Rico National Guard. These were the only all Hispanic units whose stats were kept and that is why it is known that over 53,000 Puerto Ricans and Hispanics who resided in the island served in the war. Hispanics who resided in the mainland of the United States and who were fluent in English were assigned to regular military units, otherwise they were assigned to units made up of mostly Hispanics. Those who were of fair skin color were assigned to units made up of Caucasians and those who were of dark skin color were sent to the segregated all black military units. Because of the lack of documentation, the exact number of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country is unknown. According to "Undaunted Courage Mexican American Patriots Of World War II", published in 2005 by Latino Advocates for Education, Inc., at least 9,170 Hispanics gave their lives for their country. Those estimates are based on the listings of military service personnel that were complied from military records, historical documentation or personal accounts.

Here are some of the stories of some of our Hispanic heroes who served our country, either as military personnel in active combat or as civilians on the home front.

World War II

European Theater

European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal

The term European Theatre is used by the United States referring to an area of heavy fighting across Europe which occurred, from September 1, 1939 to May 8, 1945, where the Allied forces fought the Axis powers. The European Theater was subdivided into three theatres: the Eastern Front, the Western Front and the Mediterranean Theatre. Even though the majority of Hispanic-Americans served in regular units, there were some units, in addition to the 65th Infantry Regiment from Puerto Rico, which were made up mostly of Hispanics and which were involved in active combat. One of these units was 141st Regiment of the 36th Texas Infantry.

Hispanic of the 141st Regiment of the 36th Infantry Division from Texas were some of the first American troops to land on Italian soil at Salerno. Company E of the 141st Regiment of the 36th Texas Infantry Division was entirely made up of Hispanics. The 36th Infantry Division saw combat in Italy and France, enduring heavy casualties during the controversial crossing of the Rapido River near Cassino, Italy. The 141st Regiment alone suffered a total of 1,126 killed, 5,000 wounded, and over 500 missing in action. The members of the 141st were awarded 31 Distinguished Service Crosses, 12 Legion of Merits, 492 Silver Stars, 11 Soldier's Medals, 1,685 Bronze Stars, as well as numerous commendations and decorations.

In 1943, the 65th Infantry from Puerto Rico was sent to Panama to protect the Pacific and the Atlantic sides of the isthmus. The 295th Infantry Regiment followed in 1944, departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico to the Panama Canal Zone. Among those who served with the 295th Regiment in the Panama Canal Zone was a young second lieutenant by the name of Carlos Betances Ramirez, who would later become the only Puerto Rican to command a Battalion during the Korean War. That same year, the 65th Infantry was sent to North Africa, arriving at Casablanca, where they underwent further training. By April 29, 1944, the Regiment had landed in Italy and moved on to Corsica.

On September 22, 1944, the 65th Infantry landed in France and was committed to action on the Maritime Alps at Peira Cava. The 3rd Battalion, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Juan Cesar Cordero Davila, fought against and defeated Germany's 34th Infantry Division's 107th Infantry Regiment. There were 47 U.S. battle casualties, including Sergeant Angel Martinez from the town of Sabana Grande, who became the first Puerto Rican to be killed in action from the 65th Infantry. On March 18, 1945, the regiment was sent to the District of Mannheim and assigned to military occupation duties. The regiment suffered a total of 23 soldiers killed in action.

The economic situation in Puerto Rico during the 1930s was difficult as a result of the Great Depression. Due to the shortage of jobs in the island, many Puerto Ricans joined the United States Army, which offered a guaranteed income.

Sergeant First Class Agustin Ramos Calero,

recipient of the Silver Star Medal

One of the most decorated Hispanic soldiers in World War II was Sergeant First Class Agustin Ramos Calero (1919-1989), . Agustin Ramos Calero was born and raised in the town of Isabela, in the northern region of Puerto Rico, He joined the U.S. Army in 1941 and was assigned to Puerto Rico's 65th Infantry Regiment at Camp Las Casas in Santurce. There he received his training as a rifleman. At the outbreak of World War II, Calero was reassigned to the 3rd U.S. Infantry Division and sent to Europe. In 1945, Calero's company was in the vicinity of Colmar, France and engaged in combat against a squad of German soldiers in what is known as the Battle of Colmar Pocket. Calero attacked the enemy squad, killing 10 and capturing 21 shortly before being wounded himself. For these actions, he was awarded the Silver Star Medal and received the nickname "One-Man Army" from his comrades. By the time the war ended, Calero had been wounded a total of four times during combat in Europe. He was awarded a total of 22 decorations and medals for his actions, making him one of the most decorated soldiers in the U.S. military during World War II. Among his many decorations were the Silver Star Medal, 4 Purple Heart Medals and the French Croix de Guerre.

Pacific Theater

Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal

The Pacific Theater of Operations (PTO) is the term used in the United States for all military activity between the Allies and Japan, from 1937 to 1945, in the Pacific Ocean and the countries bordering it, during World War II. There were three units made up mostly of Hispanic-Americans which served in the battlefields of the Pacific. These were the 200th Coast Artillery and the 515th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalions from New Mexico and the 158th Regimental Combat Team from Arizona.

Two National Guard units, the 200th and the 515th battalions, were activated in New Mexico in 1940. Made up mostly of Spanish speaking Hispanics from New Mexico, Arizona and Texas, the two battalions were sent to Clark Field in the Philippine Islands. Shortly after the Japanese Imperial Navy launched its surprise attack on the American Naval Fleet at Pearl Harbor, Japanese forces attacked the American positions in the Philippines. General Douglas MacArthur moved his forces, which included the 200th and 515th, to the Bataan Peninsula. Here, they fought alongside their Filipino comrades and made a heroic three-month stand against the invading forces. By April 9, 1942, rations, medical supplies, and ammunition dwindled and became scarce thus, the starving and outnumbered, troops surrendered to the Japanese. The men of the 200th and 515th battalions laid down their arms reluctantly after being given a direct order. These brave Hispanic and non-Hispanic soldiers endured the 12-day, 85-mile "death march" alongside their Filipino comrades, from Bataan to the Japanese prison camps and remained in captivity for 34 months.

The 158th Regimental Combat Team, an Arizona National Guard unit comprised of mostly Hispanic soldiers, also fought in the Pacific Theatre. Early in the war, the 158th – the "Bushmasters"– had been deployed to protect the Panama Canal and had completed much jungle training. The unit later fought the Japanese in the New Guinea area in heavy combat and was involved in the liberation of the Philippine Islands. General MacArthur referred to them as "the greatest fighting combat team ever deployed for battle."

Among the many Hispanic heroes who distinguished themselves in the Pacific Theatre was Guy Gabaldon, a young Marine who single-handedly captured over one thousand enemy civilians and troops.

PFC Guy Gabaldon,
recipient of the Navy Cross

PFC Guy Gabaldon (1926-2006) joined the Marines when he was only 17 years old. He was a Private First Class (PFC) when his unit was engaged in the Battle of Saipan in 1944. Gabaldon, who acted as the Japanese interpreter for the Second Marines, displayed extreme courage and initiative in single-handedly capturing enemy civilian and military personnel. Working alone in front of the lines, he daringly entered enemy caves, pillboxes, buildings, and jungle brush, frequently in the face of hostile fire, and succeeded in not only obtaining vital military information, but in capturing well over one thousand enemy civilians and troops. He was nominated for the Medal of Honor, however he was awarded the Silver Star instead. This was later upgraded to the Navy Cross, the Marines second highest decoration for heroism. His actions were truly remarkable, especially when compared with the actions of Sergeant Alvin York, who during World War I defeated 36 Germans and captured 132 and was awarded the Medal of Honor. Gabaldon’s actions on Saipan were later memorialized in the film "Hell to Eternity", in which he was portrayed by actor Jeffrey Hunter.

[[Documentary: East L.A Marine: The Untold True Story of Guy Gabaldon, 90 minute. To obtain a copy, contact producer, Steve Rubin, 213-300-1896 steven@fastcarrier.com www.fastcarrier.com ]]

Distinguished Hispanic Aviators

Hispanics not only served in ground and sea bound combat units, but they also distinguished themselves as fighter pilots and as bombardiers.

A "flying ace" or fighter ace is a military aviator credited with shooting down five or more enemy aircraft during aerial combat. The term "ace in a day" is used to designate a fighter pilot who has shot down five or more airplanes in a single day. Since World War I, a number of pilots have been honored as "Ace in A Day", however, the honor of being the last "Ace in A Day" for the United States in World War II belongs to First Lieutenant Oscar Francis Perdomo of the 464th fighter squadron, 507th fighter Group.

Lt. Oscar Francis Perdomo,
recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross

First Lieutenant Oscar Francis Perdomo, (1919-1976), the son of Mexican parents, was born in El Paso, Texas. When the war broke out, Perdomo joined the United States Army Air Force (USAAF) as an aviation cadet. He was trained to pilot the Republic P-47N-2-RE Thunderbolt fighter Bombers. After receiving his pilot training, he was assigned to the 464th fighter squadron, which was part of the 507th fighter group that was sent overseas to the Pacific to the Island of Ie Shima off the west coast of Okinawa.

The second atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, Japan on August 9th, 1945, but while the Allies awaited Japan’s response to the demand to surrender, the war continued. On August 13, 1945, 1st Lt. Oscar Perdomo, shot down four Nakajima "Oscar" fighters and one Yokosuka "Willow" Type 93 biplane trainer. This action took place near Keijo/Seoul, Korea when 38 Thunderbolts of the 507th Fighter Wing, encountered approximately 50 enemy aircraft. This action was Lt. Perdomo's tenth and final combat mission, and the five confirmed victories made him an "Ace in a Day" and earned him the distinction of being the last "Ace" of World War II. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action and the Air Medal with one oak leaf cluster.

Many other Hispanics served in with distinction in aerial combat including, Captain Michael Brezas, Lieutenant Colonel Donald S. Lopez, Sr., Commander Eugene A. Valencia Jr., Captain Mihiel "Mike" Gilormini, Captain Robert L. Cardenas, Technical Sergeant Clement Resto and Corporal Frank Medina.

Captain Michael Brezas, USAAF fighter ace. Captain Brezas arrived in Lucera, Italy during the summer of 1944, joining the 48th Fighter Squadron of the 14th Fighter Group. Flying the P-38 aircraft, Lt. Brezas downed 12 enemy planes within two months. He received the Silver Star Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Air Medal with eleven oak leaf clusters.

Lieutenant Colonel Donald S. Lopez, Sr., USAAF fighter ace. Lt. Col. Lopez was assigned to the 23rd Fighter Group under the command of General Claire Chennault. The mission of the fighter group (the "Flying Tigers") was to help defend the Chinese nationals against their Japanese invaders. During 1943-1944, Lopez was credited with shooting down five Japanese fighters, four in a Crutiss P-40's and one in a North American P-51.

Commander Eugene A. Valencia Jr., U.S. Navy fighter ace, Commander Valencia is credited with 23 air victories in the Pacific during World War II. Valencia's decorations include the Navy Cross, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, and six Air Medals.

Captain Mihiel "Mike" Gilormini, Royal Air Force and USAAF. Gilormini was a flight commander whose last combat mission was attacking the airfield at Milano, Italy. His last flight in Italy gave air cover for General George C. Marshall's visit to Pisa. Gilormini was the recipient of the Silver Star Medal, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, and the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters. Gilormini later became the Founder of the Puerto Rico Air National Guard and retired as Brigadier General.

Captain Robert L. Cardenas served as a B-24 aircraft pilot in the European Theater of Operations with the 506th Bombardment Squadron. He was awarded the Air Medal and two oak leaf clusters for bombing missions before being shot down over Germany in March 1944. Despite head wounds from flak, he made his way back to Allied control. On October 14th, 1947, Cardenas flew the B-29 launch aircraft that released the X-1 experimental rocket plane in which Charles E. Yeager, a captain at the time, became the first man to fly faster than the speed of sound. Cardenas retired as Brigadier General.

Technical Sergeant Clement Resto, USAAF. Though not an "ace", T/Sgt Resto served with the 303rd Bomb Group and participated in numerous bombing raids over Germany. During a bombing mission over Duren, Germany, Resto's plane, a B-17 Flying Fortress, was shot down. He was captured by the Gestapo and sent to Stalag XVII-B where he spent the rest of the war as a prisoner of war. Resto, who lost an eye during his last mission, was awarded a Purple Heart, a POW Medal and an Air Medal with one battle star after he was liberated from captivity.

Corporal Frank Medina, USAAF. During a Defense Department tribute to Hispanics who participated in World War II, Medina said: "thank the good Lord for making me a Latino." Medina was an air crew member on a B-24 that was shot down over Italy. He was the only crewmember to evade capture. Medina explained that his ability to speak Spanish had allowed him to communicate with friendly Italians who helped him avoid capture for eight months behind enemy lines. "So you see," he continued. "There's an advantage to being a Latino."

Hispanic Servicewomen

Women's Army Corps Service Medal

Traditional Hispanic cultural values expected women to be homemakers, thus they rarely left the home to earn an income. As such, women were discouraged from joining the military. Only a small number of Hispanic women joined the military before World War II. However, with the outbreak of World War II, the cultural prohibitions began to change. With the creation of the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC), predecessor of the Women's Army Corps (WAC), and the U.S. Navy WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) women could attend to certain administrative duties left open by the men who were reassigned to combat zones. In 1944, the Army sent recruiters to Puerto Rico to recruit women for the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). Over 1,000 applications were received for the unit, which was to be composed of only 200 women. After their basic training at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, the Puerto Rican WAC unit was assigned to the Port of Embarkation of New York City to work in military offices that planned the shipment of troops around the world. Not all of the WAAC units were stationed in the mainland USA. On January 1943, the 149th WAAC Post Headquarters Company became the first WAAC unit to go overseas when they went to North Africa. Serving overseas was dangerous for these women. If captured, WAACs, as "auxiliaries" serving with the Army rather than in it, did not have the same protections under international law as male soldiers. While most women who served in the military joined the WAACs, a smaller number of women served in the Naval Women’s Reserve (the WAVES).

One of the members of the 149th WAAC Post Headquarters Company was Tech4 Carmen Contreras-Bozak, who served in Algiers within General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s theatre headquarters.

Tech4 Carmen Contreras-Bozak

Tech4 Carmen Contreras-Bozak joined the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) in 1942 and was sent to Fort Lee, Virginia for training. Contreras volunteered to be part of the 149th WAAC Post Headquarters Company , thus becoming the first Hispanic woman in the WAAC. She was also the first Hispanic in said organization to serve as an interpreter and in numerous administrative positions. The unit was the first WAAC unit to go overseas, setting sail from New York Harbor for Europe on January 1943.

Contreras unit arrived in Northern Africa on January 27, 1943 and rendered overseas duties in Algiers within General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s theatre headquarters. The unit had to deal with nightly German air raids. Contreras remembers that the women who served abroad were not treated like the regular Army servicemen. They did not receive overseas payment nor could they receive government life insurance. These women had no protection if they became ill, wounded or captured. Contreras served until 1945 and earned the following decorations, European-African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 2 Battle Stars, World War II Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, Women's Army Corps Service Medal and the Army Good Conduct Medal.

There were many other Hispanic Servicewomen like Conterras who served either in the WAAC‘s, WAVE‘s or MCWR (Marine Corps Women’s Reserve’s) among them Maria Rodriguez-Denton and Sergeant Mary Castro.

LTJG Maria (Rodriguez) Denton, the Navy assigned LTJG Denton as a library assistant at the Cable and Censorship Office in New York City. It was Lt. Denton who forwarded the news (through channels) to President Harry S, Truman that the war had ended.

Sergeant Mary Castro was the first Hispanic woman from San Antonio, Texas, to join the WAAC. Seven men in her family were fighting in the Pacific Theatre and she hoped that by joining the military that she would be able to help bring home her family members. She was trained at the Army’s radio school in St. Louis, Missouri, there she learned to transcribe encoded radio messages. She continued to serve as a drill instructor in the Women’s Army Corps.

Nurses

Army Nurse Corps badge

When the United States entered World War II, the military was in need of nurses. Hispanic nurses wanted to volunteer for service, however they were not accepted into the Army or Navy Nurse Corps. As a result, many women went to work in the factories which produced military equipment. As more Hispanic men joined the armed forces a need for bilingual nurses became apparent and the Army started to recruit Hispanic nurses. In 1944, the Army Nurse Corps (ANC) decided to accept Puerto Rican nurses. Thirteen women submitted applications, were interviewed, underwent physical examinations, and were accepted into the ANC. Eight of these nurses were assigned to the Army Post at San Juan, where they were valued for their bilingual abilities. Five nurses were assigned to work at the hospital at Camp Tortuguero, Puerto Rico.

One of these nurses was Second Lieutenant Carmen Lozano Dumler, one of the first Puerto Rican women to become a United States Army officer as a WAC.

Second Lieutenant Carmen Lozano Dumler

Second Lieutenant Carmen Lozano Dumler was born and raised in the capital city of Puerto Rico, where she also received her primary and secondary education. After graduating from high school, she enrolled in the Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing in San Juan where she became a certified nurse in 1944. In August 21, 1944, she was sworn in as a 2nd Lieutenant and assigned to the 161st General Hospital in San Juan, where she continued to receive further training. Upon completing her advanced training, she was sent to Camp Tortugero where she also assisted as an interpreter whenever needed.

In 1945, Lozano was reassigned to the 359th Station Hospital of Ft. Read, Trinidad and Tobago, British West Indies, there she attended wounded soldiers who had returned from Normandy, France. After the war, Lozano, like so many other women in the military, returned to civilian life. She continued her nursing career in Puerto Rico until she retired in 1975.

Another Hispanic nurse who distinguished herself in her service to our country was Lieutenant Maria Roach. Lieutenant Maria (Garcia) Roach who served as a flight nurse with the Army Nurse Corps in the China-Burma-India Theater of Operations. Roach was awarded an Air Medal and two Bronze Stars for her heroic actions.

Hispanic Senior Officers

Hispanics served as senior military officers during World War II. Most of them were graduates of the United States Naval Academy. The two highest ranking Hispanic officers who played an instrumental role in the war were Major General (Later Lieutenant General) Pedro del Valle, the first Hispanic to reach the rank of General in the Marine Corps and Brigadier General (Later Lieutenant General) Elwood R. "Pete" Quesada of the Army Air Forces.

Lieutenant General Pedro del Valle,

recipient of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal

Lieutenant General Pedro Augusto del Valle (1893–1978), bron in San Juan, Puerto Rico, as a Colonel del Valle was the Commanding Officer of the 11th Marine Regiment (artillery). Upon the outbreak of World War II, del Valle led his regiment during the seizure and defense of Guadalcanal, providing artillery support for the 1st Marine Division. In the Battle of Tenaru, the fire power provided by del Valle's artillery units killed many assaulting Japanese soldiers before they ever reached the Marine positions. The attackers were killed almost to the last man. The outcome of the battle was so stunning that the Japanese commander, Colonel Ichiki Kiyonao, committed seppuku shortly afterwards. General Alexander Vandegrift, impressed with del Valle's leadership recommended his promotion and on October 1, 1942, del Valle became a Brigadier General. Vandegrift retained del Valle as head of the 11th Marines, the only time that the 11th Marines has ever had a general as their commanding officer. In 1943, he served as Commander of Marine Forces overseeing Guadalcanal, Tulagi, and the Russell and Florida Islands.

On April 1, 1944, del Valle, as Commanding General of the Third Corps Artillery, III Marine Amphibious Corps, took part in the Battle of Guam and was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a second Legion of Merit. The men under his command did such a good job with their heavy artillery that no one man could be singled out for commendation. Instead each man was given a letter of commendation by del Valle, which was carried in his record books.

In late October 1944, he succeeded Major General William Rupertus as Commanding General of the 1st Marine Division, being personally greeted to his new command by Colonel Lewis Burwell "Chesty" Puller. At the time, the 1st Marine Division was training on the island of Pavuvu for the invasion of Okinawa. On May 29, 1945, del Valle participated in one of the most important events that led to victory in Okinawa. After five weeks of fighting, del Valle ordered Company A of the 1st Battalion 5th Marines to capture Shuri Castle, a medieval fortress of the ancient Ryukyuan kings. Seizure of Shuri Castle represented a moral blow for the Japanese and was an undeniable milestone in the Okinawa campaign. The fighting in Okinawa would continue for 24 more days. Del Valle was awarded a Distinguished Service Medal for his leadership during the battle and the subsequent occupation and reorganization of Okinawa.

Lieutenant General Elwood R. "Pete" Quesada,
recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal

Lieutenant General Elwood R. "Pete" Quesada, (1904-1993), was assigned to intelligence in the Office of the Chief of Air Corps in October 1940. He went on to become commanding general of the 9^th Fighter Command where he established advanced Headquarters on the Normandy beachhead on D-Day plus one, and directed his planes in aerial cover and air support for the Allied invasion of the European continent.

He was the foremost proponent of "the inherent flexibility of air power," a principle he helped prove during World War II. His military career spanned aviation history from post-World War I era biplanes to supersonic jets.

In December 1942, a year after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Quesada took the First Air Defense Wing to North Africa and the heat of battle. Shortly thereafter, he was given command of the XII Fighter Command and in this capacity would work out the mechanics of close air support and Army-Air Forces cooperation.

The successful integration of air and land forces in the Tunisia campaign forged by Quesada and the Allied leaders became a blueprint for operations incorporated into Army Air Forces field regulations -- FM 100-20, "Command and Employment of Air Power," first published on July 21, 1943 -- and provided the Allies with their first victory in the European war. Principles such as the co-equality of ground and air force commanders, centralized command of tactical aircraft to exploit "the inherent flexibility of air power," and the attainment of air superiority over the battlefield as a prerequisite for successful ground operations formed the core of tactical air doctrine. In October 1943, Quesada assumed command of the IX Fighter Command in England, and his forces provided air cover for the greatest invasion in history, the landings on Normandy Beach. Among Quesada’s many military decorations were the following: Distinguished Service Medal with oak leaf cluster; Distinguished Flying Cross; Purple Heart and an Air Medal with two silver stars.

A number of other Hispanics served in senior leadership positions during World War II, including Rear Admiral Jose M. Cabanillas, Rear Admiral Edmund Ernest Garcia, Rear Admiral Frederick Lois Riefkohl, Admiral Horacio Rivero, Colonel Jaime Sabater and Rear Admiral Henry G. Sanchez.

Rear Admiral Jose M. Cabanillas, USN, (1901-1979) born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, was an Executive Officer of the USS Texas, which participated in the invasions of North Africa and Normandy (D-Day) during World War II. In 1945, he became the first Commanding officer of the USS Grundy (APA-111).

Rear Admiral Edmund Ernest Garcia, USN, during WWII was commander of the destroyer USS Sloat and saw action in the invasions of Africa, Sicily, and France.

Rear Admiral Frederick Lois Riefkohl, USN, (1889–1969), a native of Maunabo, Puerto Rico, was World War I Navy Cross recipient who served as Captain of the USS Vincennes (CA-44) during World War II.

Admiral Horacio Rivero, Jr., USN, (1910–2000), born in Ponce, Puerto Rico), served aboard the USS San Juan (CL-54) and was involved in providing artillery cover for Marines landing on Guadalcanal, Marshall Islands, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. Rivero eventually reached the rank of Full-Admiral (four-stars). In October 1962, Admiral Rivero found himself in the middle of the Cuban Missile Crisis. As Commander of amphibious forces, Atlantic Fleet, he was on the front line of the vessels sent to the Caribbean by President Kennedy to stop the Cold War from escalating into World War III.

Colonel Jaime Sabater, USMC, born in Puerto Rico, commanded the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines during the Bougainville amphibious operations.

Rear Admiral Henry G. Sanchez, USN, during World War II, then-LCDR Sanchez commanded VF-72, a F4F squadron of 37 aircraft, onboard the USS Hornet (CV-8) from July to October 1942. His squadron was responsible for shooting down 38 Japanese airplanes during his command tour, which included the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands.

Submarine Commanders

Captain Marion Frederic Ramirez de Arellano,
recipient of the Silver Star Medal

Captain Marion Frederic Ramirez de Arellano, (1913-1980) USN, born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, participated in five war patrols. He led the effort to rescue five Navy pilots and one enlisted gunner off Wake Island, and contributed to the sinking of two Japanese freighters and damaging a third. For his actions, he was awarded a Silver Star Medal and a Legion of Merit Medal.

After a brief stint at the Navy Yard on Mare Island, he was reassigned to the USS Skate, a Balao class submarine. He participated in the Skates first three war patrols and was awarded a second Silver Star Medal for his contributions in the sinking the Japanese light cruiser Agano, on his third patrol. The Agano had survived a previous torpedo attack by submarine USS Scamp.

In April 1944, Ramirez de Arellano as named Commanding Officer of the USS Balao. He participated in his ship's war patrols 5, 6 and 7. On July 5, 1944, Ramirez de Arellano led the rescue of three downed Navy pilots in the Palau area. On December 4, 1944, the Balao departed from Pearl Harbor to patrol in the Yellow Sea. The Balao engaged and sunk the Japanese cargo ship Daigo Maru on January 8, 1945. Ramirez de Arellano was awarded a Bronze Star Medal with Combat V and a Letter of Commendation.

Two other notable Hispanic submarine commanders were Rear Admiral Rafael Celestino Benitez and Captain C. Kenneth Ruiz.

Rear Admiral Rafael Celestino Benitez, USN, (1917–1999) born in Juncos, Puerto Rico, was a Lieutenant Commander and saw action aboard submarines and on various occasions weathered depth charge attacks. For his actions, he was awarded the Silver and Bronze Star Medals. Benitez would later play an important role in the first American undersea spy mission of the Cold War as commander of the submarine USS Cochino in what became known as the "Cochino Incident".

Captain C. Kenneth Ruiz, USN , from Long Beach, California, was a crew member of the cruiser USS Vincennes (CA-44), during the Battle of Savo Island. After being rescued at sea and sent to Pearl Harbor, he got a personal invitation by Admiral Chester Nimitz to join the Submarine Service. He was named Captain of the submarine USS Pollack and participated in eight war patrols in the hostile waters of the Pacific during WWII.

Hispanic recipients of the
Medal of Honor

Army and Navy (Marines) Medals of Honor

The Medal of Honor, sometimes referred to as the Congressional Medal of Honor, is the highest military decoration in the United States bestowed "for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty, in actual combat against an armed enemy force." The medal is awarded by the President of the United States on behalf of the Congress. Joe P. Martinez was the first Hispanic recipient, from a total of 13, of the Medal of Honor during World War II. His posthumous award was the first for combat heroism on American soil (other than the 15 at Pearl Harbor) since the Indian Campaigns .

Pvt. Joseph Pantillion Martinez

Pvt. Joe P. Martinez, whose birth name was Joseph Pantillion Martinez, was one of nine children born to a family of Mexican immigrants. His family moved to Ault, Colorado and on August 1942, he was drafted into the United States Army and sent to Camp Roberts in California where he received his basic training.

On May 26, 1943, the 32nd Infantry Regiment was engaged in combat in the vicinity of Fish Hook Ridge, in the Aleutian Islands, against enemy troops. The regiment was pinned down by enemy fire. Pvt. Martinez, on his own account led two assaults. He fired his rifle into the Japanese foxholes and occasionally he stopped to urge his comrades on. His example inspired the men of his unit to follow. Martinez was shot in the head as he approached one final foxhole after the second assault, dying of the wound the following day. Because of his actions the pass was taken, and its capture was an important preliminary to the end of organized hostile resistance. Martinez was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, highest military decoration of the United States.

Of the 14 Medal of Honors awarded, 6 of them were awarded posthumously. Texas is the state that accounted for the most Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients in World War II with a total of 5. The following is a list of recipients in alphabetical order by last names, followed by branch of service, place and date of action. Note: An asterisk after the name indicates that the award was given posthumously.

Lucian Adams: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: St. Die, France, October 1944.

Rudolph B. Davila: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Artena, Italy, 28 May, 1944. Davila was of Hispanic-Filipino descent and the only person of Filipino ancestry to receive the medal for his actions in the war in Europe

Marcario Garcia: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Near Grosshau, Germany, November 27, 1944. Garcia was the first Mexican national Medal of Honor recipient.

Harold Gonsalves*: United States Marine Corps. Place and Date of Action: Ryūkyū Chain, Okinawa, April 15, 1945.

David M. Gonzales*: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, April 25, 1945.

Silvestre S. Herrera: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Near Mertzwiller, France, March 15, 1945. Herrera is the only living person authorized to wear the Medal of Honor and Mexico's equivalent "Premier Merito Militar" (Order of Military Merit).

Jose M. Lopez: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Near Krinkelt, Belgium, December 17, 1944

Joe P. Martinez*: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Attu, Aleutians, May 26, 1943. Martinez was the first Hispanic-American recipient who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for combat heroism on American soil during World War II.

Manuel Perez Jr.*: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Fort William McKinley, Luzon, Philippine Islands, February 13, 1945.

Cleto L. Rodriguez: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Paco Railroad Station, Manila, Philippine Islands, February 9, 1945.

Alejandro R. Ruiz: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Okinawa, Japan, April 28, 1945.

Jose F. Valdez*: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Rosenkrantz, France, January 25, 1945.

Ysmael R. Villegas*: United States Army. Place and Date of Action: Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, March 20, 1945.

Top military decorations awarded to Hispanic-Americans

Hispanics have been awarded every major U.S. military decoration, including the Medal of Honor. Hispanics-Americans have also been honored with military awards from other counties. 31 Hispanics were awarded the Belgium Croix de Guerre and 3 Hispanics received the French Croix de Guerre. The figures in the following table come from the book "Undaunted Courage Mexican American Patriots Of World War II" published in 2005 by Latino Advocates for Education, Inc. and according to Rogelio C. Rodriguez of the LAE, the figures are based on listings of military service personnel that have been complied from military records, historical documentation, or personal accounts.

Hispanics: U.S. Armed Forces Awards

Hero Street, USA

Purple Heart Medal

In the small mid-West town of Silvis, Illinois, the former Second Street is now known as Hero Street USA. The muddy block and a half long street was home to Mexican immigrants who worked the railroads. The 22 families who lived on the street were a close-knit group. From this small street, 84 men served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam – the street contributed more men to military services in World War II and Korea than any other street of comparable size in the U.S. In total, eight men from Hero Street gave their lives during World War II – Joseph Gomez, Peter Macias, Johnny Munos, Tony Pompa, Frank Sandoval, Joseph "Joe" Sandoval, William "Bill" Sandoval and Claro Soliz. Second Street‘s name was changed to Hero Street in honor to these patriotic men and their families.

Sacrifice of the Sandoval Families: Of the 22 families on Second Street, the two Sandoval families had a total of thirteen men who served – and of these, three gave their lives in service during World War II.

The Sandoval’s were two families of Mexican immigrants who settled in the town of Silvis, Illinois and lived in Second Street.

Edubigis and Angelina Sandoval immigrated to the U.S. with a dream of having a better life. When the news reached Silvis that the Japanese had attacked Pearl Harbor, two of the Sandoval sons, Joe and Frank Sandoval joined the U.S. Army to defend their country, Joe was sent to combat in Africa, the Middle East and Europe with the 41st Armored Infantry Division. Frank was assigned to the 209 Combat Engineering Battalion and served in the Pacific. Frank was the first of the Sandoval’s to die and Joe followed a year later.

Joseph and Carmen Sandoval also immigrated to the United States from Mexico. When the war broke out, their son Bill asked for permission to enlist in the Army. In gratitude to this nation, both parents consented to their son's request to serve the country. Bill Sandoval was trained as a paratrooper and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division. He was killed during a combat mission on October 6, 1944.

There were many other families all over the country, like the Sandoval’s, who had multiple members join the Armed Forces. The following Hispanic families each had six siblings who served in the military during the war:

1. The Banuelo family, originally from Mexico and who resided in Los Angeles, California, Charles G., Henry G., Jesus G., Ralph G., Robert G. and Roy G. Banuelos.

2. The Garcia family from Los Angeles, California, Al Alfonso, Anthony V., Gustavo N., Ignacio J., Joseph E. and Leonard J. Garcia.

3. The Mora family from Laredo, Texas, Gilberto, Calixto, Alejandro, Silvestre, Daniel, and Reynaldo Mora.

One family, the Nevarez family, from Los Angeles, California, had a total of 8 siblings in the Armed Forces. They were, Francisco, Gilberto, Manuel, Ezekiel, Samuel, Daniel, Feliz and Encarnacion (KIA) Nevarez.

Discrimination against Hispanics in the Military

On July 4, 1776 our Founding Fathers signed their names to the Declaration of Independence envisioning a country that would guarantee basic freedoms to all its citizens. The equality declared in 1776 has been denied to many men and women of various races and religions at one time or another. Prejudice, discrimination and intolerance often arose from fear, suspicion and anger. At different times in our history people have been denied their rights because of their ethnicity. Racial discrimination practiced against Hispanics, including Puerto Ricans on the United States' east coast and Mexican American’s in California and the Southwest, was widespread and was not limited to civilians. During World War II, the United States Army was segregated. Hispanics, including the Puerto Ricans who resided on the mainland, who were fluent in English served alongside their "white" counterparts. Those who were not fluent in English were assigned to units made up mostly of Hispanics. "Black" Hispanics were assigned to units made up mostly of African-Americans. The vast majority of the Puerto Ricans from the island served in Puerto Rico's segregated units, like the 65th Infantry and the Puerto Rico National Guard's 285th and 296th regiments. Some Hispanics who served in regular Army units witnessed and experienced the racial discrimination of the day.

Discrimination in the Military

In an interview, PFC Raul Rios Rodriguez from Puerto Rico said that during his basic training at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he had encountered a strict drill instructor who was particularly harsh on the Hispanic and black soldiers in his unit. He stated that he remains resentful of the discriminatory treatment that Latino and black soldiers received during basic training.

"We were all soldiers; we were all risking our lives for the United States. That should have never been done, Never."

Rios Rodriguez was shipped to Le Havre, France, assigned to guard bridges and supply depots in France and Germany with the 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division.

Another soldier from Puerto Rico, PFC Felix Lopez-Santos was drafted into the Army and sent to Fort Dix in New Jersey for training. Lopez-Santos went to Milne Bay and then to the small island of Woodlark, both in New Guinea, where he was in the communications department, using telephone wires to communicate to the troops during the war. In an interview, Lopez-Santos stated that in North Carolina he witnessed some forms of racial discrimination, but never experienced it for himself. He stated, "I remember seeing some colored people refused service at a restaurant, I believe that I was not discriminated against because of my blue eyes and fair complexion."

PFC Norberto Gonzalez was born in Cuba and moved to New York City in 1944 where he joined the Army. He was assigned to an all-white battalion and is soon subject to discrimination. In Gonzalez’s own words: "They would ask me a lot what my name was and where I was born, and I constantly found myself explaining this to everyone. Once they knew who I was, they would treat me differently."

He requested a transfer to a black segregated battalion because of the discrimination he felt and said that it was only then when he felt comfortable. "My relationship with the soldiers in my battalion was good; they were down-to-earth people. I felt good. I felt like I could progress with them"

Cpl. Alfonso Rodriguez, a Mexican-American, was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In 1941, he joined the Army, where he would face racial discrimination. According to Rodriguez: "I was in recruit training the first time that I felt racial discrimination." He recalled one incident when he and fellow Mexican-American soldiers were sitting around speaking Spanish when a white soldier approached them. The white soldier demanded that the men stop speaking Spanish and speak English, "like Americans." After arguing, Rodriguez said the white soldier, who was much bigger than he was, slapped him around and stormed off. Several weeks later, after a friend taught him some boxing moves, Rodriguez confronted the white soldier with his newfound boxing skills. "I was angry," Rodriguez said. "When I hit him, I laid him out on the floor. He took off running and never bothered us anymore."

Rodriguez’s first taste of combat was in New Guinea in 1944. His unit participated in the invasion of Los Negros Island. He recalls the racial remarks made by a Captain while he was wounded. "That was the first time I was called a smart-ass Mexican," said Rodriguez, speaking of an incident that occurred in the Philippines. Rodriguez earned a Bronze Star and four Purple Heart medals before he returned home.

Discrimination after Returning Home

Despite the fact that Hispanics served with honor, they still had to deal with discrimination upon their return home. Discrimination was not only limited to those who returned alive, but in some cases, such as the case of Pvt. Felix Longoria, it was also practiced against those who gave their lives for our country.

Pvt. Felix Longoria, recipient of the Purple Heart

Pvt. Felix Longoria (1919-1944), from Three Rivers, Texas, was drafted into the U.S. Army on November 11, 1944. At the age of 25, he left Texas, leaving behind his wife and four year old daughter. Seven months later, he was killed in action while on a voluntary patrol in the Cagayan Valley, Luzon, Philippines. When his remains were returned in 1949 , his widow Beatrice Longoria attempted to make the funeral arrangements in the town's only funeral parlor. The owner of the funeral parlor refused the Longoria family the use of the parlor under the grounds that "the whites would not like it." Dr. Hector P. Garcia, who founded the American G.I. Forum, and then-U.S. Senator Lyndon B. Johnson of Texas intervened. Senator Johnson, Lady Bird Johnson, Congressman John Lyle, and President Truman's military aide, Gen. Harry H. Vaughan joined the Longoria family for a full military burial with honors at Arlington National Cemetery on February 16, 1949. Senator Johnson stated "This injustice and prejudice is deplorable. I am happy to have a part seeing that this Texas hero is laid to rest with the honor and dignity his service deserves."

The Homefront

Entertainment provided by the United Service Organizations, Inc. (USO) helped to lift the morale of our troops. Some Hispanics in the entertainment business served our country in this manner. One of the most notable was Desi Arnaz.

Cuban bandleader, Desi Arnaz (1917–1986), who in the 1950s produced and starred alongside his wife Lucille Ball, in the popular television sitcom "I Love Lucy", was drafted into the Army in 1943. The Army classified him for limited service because a of prior knee injury and as a result he was assigned to direct the U.S.O. programs at a military hospital in the San Fernando Valley, California. He served until 1945.

Economics of War

When the United States entered World War II, it was expected that Hispanic-Americans would not only serve their country in the military, but also as civilians who remained on the home-front. Hispanic-American men and women who lived in the mainland, benefited from the sudden economic boom as a result of the war; and the doors opened for many of the migrants who were searching for jobs. Puerto Ricans, both male and female, found themselves employed in factories and ship docks, producing both domestic and warfare goods in what became known as the "The Great Migration" of Puerto Ricans to New York. The new migrants gained the knowledge and working skills that would serve them well.

Hispanic Women in War Industries

J. Howard Miller's
"We Can Do It!"
Rosie the Riveter

Perhaps the most enduring image of American life on the home front is that of "Rosie the Riveter" by J. Howard Miller, inspired by a Norman Rockwell drawing. "Rosie" came to symbolize the ideal female war worker–she was strong and patriotic, yet retained her feminine look.

Prior to World War II, many women had been homemakers and rarely left the home to earn a living. This was especially true in the traditional Hispanic culture. Previously, the federal government had discouraged women, especially married ones, from seeking paid employment during the Depression. The need for workers in war industries led to a reversal of this policy. The first jobs that were given to women included secretarial work, sewing for the Red Cross and winding bandages to send overseas to the men in combat.

When men began to leave their jobs for military service, women began to fill in the gaps and entered traditionally "male" occupations. They helped to build airplanes, made ammunition in factories, and worked in shipyards.

The following are the stories of some of the Hispanic women who served in war industries, from interviews as complied by the "U.S. Latino & Latina WWII Oral History Project" under the direction of Prof. Maggie Rivas-Rodriguez of the University of Texas.

Isabel Solis-Thomas and Elvia Solis were born in Veracruz, Mexico. The Solis family immigrated to the United States and moved to Brownsville, Texas. Mrs. Solis-Thomas remembers experiencing discrimination as a youth, even from people of her own ancestry. She remembered a Mexican-American teacher once telling the class that no matter how much Mexican-American girls applied themselves, they would never accomplish anything more than being housekeepers.

When World War II broke out, both sisters volunteered to become "Rosie the Riveter" machinists, welding pipes and repairing cargo ships by the war’s end with women of all races from all over the country. Mrs. Solis-Thomas said recruiters wanted women who were small, short and thin for crawling into dangerous places in the ships. She said she worked nine-hour days, six days a week, striking and sealing steel rods with precision and purpose. "It (the war) was in full force," Mrs. Solis-Thomas said. "And that’s why they needed us to go and help them to build these ships to get them out because they needed the ammunition, they needed the food and they needed to transport these boys where they had to go." "I was so proud because, man, I did it just exactly the way they wanted (me) to," Mrs. Solis-Thomas said. "And here I come out, and they said, "Hi, shorty. You did pretty good."

In 1944, the United States produced 96,318 airplanes. Over 250,000 airplanes were produced between 1939 and 1945. Those airplanes needed mechanics.

Josephine Ledesma, from Austin, Texas, was 24 when the war broke out. At that time, her husband, Alfred, was drafted and she decided to volunteer to work as an airplane mechanic. Even tough the Army waived her husband’s duty, she was sent to train at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas., where she as the only Mexican-American woman on the base.

After her training, she was sent to Bergstrom Air Field. According to Ledesma "In Bergstrom Field our duty was 'to keep them flying.' We were taking care of all transit aircraft that came that needed repairs." There were two other women, both non-Hispanic, at Bergstrom Air Field, and several more in Big Spring, all working in the sheet metal department. At Big Spring, she was the only woman working in the hangar. She worked as a mechanic between from 1942 to 1944.

Postscript End of the War

The American participation in the World War II came to an end in Europe on May 8, 1945, "V-E Day" (Victory in Europe Day), with Germany's surrender and in the Asian theater on August 14, 1945, "V-J Day" (Victory over Japan Day), when the Japanese surrendered by signing the Japanese Instrument of Surrender.

Many of the men and women who were discharged from the military after the war returned to their civilian jobs or made use of the educational benefits of the G.I. Bill. However, there were many who continued in the military as career soldiers and went on to serve in the Korean War. Women were now considered a valuable asset to the national work force and many preferred to remain in their jobs and were longer looked upon by the American public in general only as homemakers.

Honoring our Heroes

The memory of many of our heroes has been honored in various ways. Some their names can be found in ships, parks and inscribed in monuments. On various occasions, the Pentagon and the Department of Defense have paid tribute to these warriors.

Captain Linda Garcia Cubero (USAF), while serving as Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense, supervised the development of a United States commemorative stamp designed to honor Hispanics who served in America's defense. The stamp was designed by the ten Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients and unveiled on October 31, 1984.

Various Latino organizations and writers have worked to document the Hispanic experience in World War II; most notably the U.S. Latino & Latina WWII Oral History Project, launched by Professor. Maggie Rivas-Rodriguez of the University of Texas. However, the vast majority of the American population continues to be unaware of our contributions because these have been omitted from our history books and from documentaries.

Final Comments

"The War", a documentary about World War II by filmmaker Ken Burns that will air on PBS in September 2007, did not include any mention of Hispanic contributions. This failure to include any Hispanics in the film has been recognized and criticized by ordinary citizens, Hispanic leaders, and Congressional leaders alike. As a result of public pressure, officials in PBS have announced that Burns' documentary will include additional content incorporating the Hispanic contributions to the war effort.

The only way that the people of America will become aware of contributions made by Hispanics, and also the contributions of other minorities to our country, is if their stories are included in our history books and documentaries and reported in the mass media. By educating this generation about the accomplishments of our past generations, we preserve our history for future generations to look back on with pride.

References

"World War II By The Numbers" in Education at the World War II Museum. The National World War II Museum. http://www.nationalww2museum.org/education/education_numbers.html
[1 June 2007] "Undaunted Courage Mexican American Patriots Of World War II" (2005). Latino Advocates for Education, Inc. http://www.latinoadvocates.org/registrationinfo2006.html> [ 2 June 2007] Schmal, John P. (November 11, 1999) "Hispanic Contributions to America's Defense", Puerto Rico Herald. http://www.houstonculture.org/hispanic/memorial.html [1 June 2007] Harris, W. W. Puerto Rico’s Fighting 65th U.S. Infantry: From San Juan to Chowan. Presidio Press. ISBN 0-89141-056-2 "Commands" http://www.valerosos.com/CommandsGVillahermosa.html
[1 June 2007] Soulet, Noemi Figueroa. (August 17, 2005) "Puerto Rican Soldier". http://www.prsoldier.com/17--aug2005.pdf [2 June 207] Flores, Santiago A. "Oscar F. Perdomo - The Last Ace In a Day of WW II" in America's Defense. http://www.neta.com/~1stbooks/oscarp.htm [2 June 2007] "Memories of a Jug Driver". WorldWar2Pilots.com. http://www.worldwar2pilots.com/earlspage.htmL [2 June 2007] "T/SG Clement Resto" http://www.valerosos.com/2.htm [2 June 2007] Rhem, Kathleen T. (September 15, 2004) "Pentagon Hosts Salute to Hispanic World War II Veterans". U.S. Department of Defense. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=25295 [3 June 2007] " Lieutenant General Pedro A. Del Valle, USMC", Who's Who in Marine Corps History. History Division, United States Marine Corps. http://hqinet001.hqmc.usmc.mil/HD/Historical/Whos_Who/delValle_PA.htm [2 June 2007] "CAPT Marion Frederic Ramirez de Arellano " in USNA graduates of Hispanic descent for the Class of 1879 – 1959. Association of Naval Service Officers. http://www.ansomil.org/home/USNAofficers.html#Arellano [1 June 2007]
"Joseph P. Martinez, Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient". http://www.hlswilliwaw.com/aleutians/Attu/html/attu-josephpmartinez.htm [1 June 2007] "Hispanic Medal of Honor Recipients". BuffaloSoldier.net. http://www.buffalosoldier.net/Hispanic-AmericanMedalofHonorRecipients.htm [2 June 2007] "Hero Street" http://www.neta.com/~1stbooks/hero.htm [1 June 2007] Bellafaire, Judith. "Puerto Rican Servicewomen in Defense of the Nation". Women In Military Service For America Memorial Foundation. http://www.womensmemorial.org/Education/PRHistory.html [2 June 2007] Bellafaire, Judith. "The Contributions of Hispanic Servicewomen". Women In Military Service For America Memorial Foundation. http://www.womensmemorial.org/Education/HisHistory.html [2 June 2007] "Discrimination". History.com http://www.history.com/encyclopedia.do?articleId=207654 [2 June 2007] Kerschen, D'Arcy. "Despite war’s end and brother’s horror stories, man was intent on joining military" in U.S. Latinos and Latinas & WWII Oral History Project. http://utopia.utexas.edu/explore/latino/narratives/07Rios-Rodriguez_Raul.html [3 June 2007] de la Cruz, Juan. "Man survived jungle fever, suicide attacks and kangaroos during service in Pacific" in U.S. Latinos and Latinas & WWII Oral History Project. http://utopia.utexas.edu/explore/latino/narratives/07Lopez-Santos_Felix.html [2 June 2007] Mathieson, Catherine. "Cuban immigrant found acceptance in black Army battalion " in U.S. Latinos and Latinas & WWII Oral History Project. http://utopia.utexas.edu/explore/latino/narratives/07Gonzalez_Norberto.html [2 June 2007] Green, Alyssa. " Alfonso Rodriguez figured that war was hell, but he never counted on having to fight bigotry as well as the enemy" in U.S. Latinos and Latinas & WWII Oral History Project. http://utopia.utexas.edu/explore/latino/narratives/08rodriguez_alfonso.html [3 June 2007] Hannah. "Women fill the Gaps in the Workforce" in U.S. Latinos and Latinas & WWII Oral History Project. http://utopia.utexas.edu/explore/latino/narratives/02WOMEN_WORKERS.HTML [3 June 2007] Zukowski, Anna. " Despite war’s bleakness, Isabel Solis Thomas remembers a time of maturing, camaraderie and loyalty to U.S. soldiers" in U.S. Latinos and Latinas & WWII Oral History Project. http://utopia.utexas.edu/explore/latino/narratives/08thomas_isabel.html [3 June 2007] Rivera, Monica. "A Women ahead of her time" in U.S. Latinos and Latinas & WWII Oral History Project. http://utopia.utexas.edu/explore/latino/narratives/4ledesmajosephine.htm [3 June 2007] Bellafaire, Judith A. (February 7, 2005) The Women's Army Corps: A Commemoration of World War II Service". U.S. Army Center of Military History. < http://www.army.mil/cmh-pg/brochures/wac/wac.htm [10 June 2007] Mariscal, Jorge. (February 14, 2007) "Some of Ken Burns' World War II Heroes are Missing in Action". Hispanic Link News Service. http://news.ncmonline.com/news/view_article.html?article_id=972862a2e41d
338ffbdd54f424bdc79e [8 July 2007] Jensen, Elizabeth. (May 5, 2007) "PBS supports Ken Burns against Latinos’ complaints". The New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/05/arts/television/05pbs.html?ref=arts
[7 May 2007]. Also available from http://reclaimthemedia.org/media_justice/pbs_supports_ken_burns_against=5202 [8 July 2007] Chatila, Tania. (June 28, 2007) "Their turn to talk", San Gabriel Valley Tribune. http://www.defendthehonor.org/documents/news_releases/SGVTribune_6-28-07.htm [8 July 2007]

Special Thanks

I would like to thank my friend ERcheck for all the work that was put into this article with his terrific copyediting and revision.

Update on PBS. . . THE WAR. The DVD that was distribute to the media by Ken Burns DID NOT include two Latino and one Native American segments. For the latest information on efforts for Latino inclusion on/in PBS programming during Hispanic Heritage Month, please go to http://www.DefendTheHonor.org.

Master Chief Joe R. Campa Jr.
MCPON (SW/FMF)

Hey Mimi, I am a retired Navy Chief, and thought you might put this in the newsletter. Chief Campa is effectively the senior enlisted person in the Navy. As the Master Chief Petty Officer Of the Navy, he is the only person at the rank of E-10. He serves in the Pentagon as the representative of all enlisted personnel.

Master Chief Joe R. Campa Jr. was raised in Southern California and enlisted in the Navy on 2 June 1980. He completed Recruit Training and Hospital Corps "A" School in San Diego, Calif.

His duty assignments include USS Ogden (LPD 5) San Diego, Calif.; Naval Medical Center, San Diego, Calif.; Seventh Marine Regiment, First Marine Division, Camp Pendleton; Naval Hospital, Long Beach, Calif.; Third Force Service Support Group, Fleet Marine Force, Okinawa, Japan; Naval Hospital Bremerton, Wash.; First Force Service Support Group during the Persian Gulf War; USS Comstock (LSD 45) San Diego, Calif.; Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill.

Master Chief Campa was selected to the Command Master Chief program in May
1999 and reported to USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) in Yokosuka, Japan as Command Master Chief in November 1999 and served until June 2002.

During his tour, the ship deployed to the North Arabian Sea in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. From June 2003 - February 2005 he served as the Command Master Chief for USS Frank Cable (AS 40) stationed in Guam. Prior to being selected to be MCPON he was the Command Master Chief at Joint Task Force Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Command Master Chief Campa is a distinguished honor graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (class 88). He also graduated from the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy in May 2003 and completed the Command Sergeants Major course. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Excelsior College. In March 2006 he graduated from the Naval War College with a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies.

His personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), Army Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (six awards) and various unit and campaign awards.

Tim Crump
crumpta@msn.com
AMA#664988
MGNOC #262
98 Moto Guzzi V10 (1000) Centauro
69 Moto Guzzi 750 Ambassador

Lt. General Elwood R. Quesada AUL/BLDG 1405/Foyer

Hopefully this web site of the www.afa.org/magazine/ will be of help to those of you that want to read or copy articles like this one of General Elwood P. Quesada for your personal library files.

This article is in the archives of April 2003. I like to follow up on the writers or authors of these articles to see if they have written other articles on Latinos or would like to do an article that I would like to see in their magazines. http://www.afa.org/magazine/april2003/0403Quesada.asp

Rafael Ojeda

Ralph Lazo's decision to voluntarily join his Japanese American classmates in the internment camp

By Cecilia Rasmussen, Times Staff Writer,
May 27 2007 Manzanar, Calif., May 1942.

Complete article: http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-
then27may27,1,4237927.story

Educational Film Stand Up for Justice: The Ralph Lazo Story (2004), a half-hour educational film about the Mexican American citizen who voluntarily accompanied his Japanese American friends to Manzanar. Available from from Visual Communications (VC) Media Arts Founded 1970 Headquarters Los Angeles, California Key people Leslie Ito, Executive Director Focus Asian Pacific American community Website www.vconline.org

Documentary: East L.A Marine: The Untold True Story of Guy Gabaldon, 90 minute of chronology from his family roots in New Mexico, to being born and raised in East L.A. though his amazing capturing of about 1500 Japanese soldiers and civilians in Saipan during WW II, plus his post wars. To obtain a copy, contact producer, Steve Rubin, 213-300-1896 steven@fastcarrier.com www.fastcarrier.com

Full-color Free Print copies of the 24 X 36 inch lithograph, Pied Piper of Saipan can be obtained for classroom, public library, and veteran groups use.
Send a $4.05 Priority US mail stamp (no cash or check) to: SomosPrimos/Gabaldon Print
P.O. 490, Midway City, CA 92655-0490

Extract: California is leading nation in diversity

Minorities make up 57% of the state's population and one-third of the nation's, data show. The growth is likely to affect public policy. By Teresa Watanabe Times Staff Writer, May 17, 2007

Deepening the nation's diversity, the minority population of the United States reached 100.7 million in 2006, led by California as home to the largest numbers of the two fastest-growing racial groups, Latinos and Asians, the Census Bureau reported today.

Minorities now account for one-third of the nation's 300 million U.S. residents, with the largest share of them — 21% — living in California.

They now constitute 57% of the state's population, including 13.1 million Latinos, 5 million Asians, 2.7 million blacks and 689,000 Native Americans and Alaska Natives, according to population estimates taken between July 1, 2005, and July 1, 2006.

Non-Hispanic whites were still California's largest racial group, at 15.7 million, but represented a shrinking proportion of the state's population.

Nationally, the median age for Latinos was 27.4, compared with 30.1 for blacks, 33.5 for Asians and 40.5 for whites. "The Census Bureau's estimates are based on population change from 2000 using annual data on births, deaths and international migration.

Nationally, Latinos accounted for almost half the nation's population growth of 2.9 million. Their numbers increased by 3.4% to 44.3 million in 2006, constituting 14.8% of the nation's population, with the largest numbers in California, Texas and Florida.

Minorities now account for one-third of the nation's 300 million residents and make up 57% of California's population. Census Bureau population estimates as of July 1, 2006 (in millions)

In millions	California	Nation
White*	15.7	198.7
Latino	13.1	44.3
Asian	5.0	14.9
Black	2.7	40.2
Native American	0.7	4.5
Pacific Islander	0.3	1.0
Total population	36.5	299.4

* Non-Hispanic whites who indicated no other race
Note: Group totals do not add up to the population totals because members of minority races may be counted in more than one group. Source: Census Bureau (A1) Minorities

California is home to 20.7 million members of racial and ethnic minority groups, 21% of the nation's total. Rest of U.S. - 79%. Source: Census Bureau estimates 2006

Sent by Juan Ramos, Ph.D.

Inside the House: Hispanics Subgroups Differ by Age, July 2005
http://www.hispanicbusiness.com/news/newsbyid.asp?id=24123&cat=Research%20News

Distinct age differences emerge among Hispanic subgroups. More than 20 percent of Cubans are 65 or older, while a scant 4 percent of Mexicans are in that age bracket. On the other hand, 37 percent of Mexicans and 31 percent of Puerto Ricans are younger than 18, compared with just 20 percent of Cubans.

Similarly,Mexicans have a lower median age of 24.7, while Cubans have a median age of 42.7, much higher than the median age of 35.9 of the total U.S. population.
Source: HispanTelligence

U.S. Hispanic Media Market: Projections to 2010

Advertisers' efforts to reach Hispanic consumers are becoming more targeted, and language is a major factor, according to a new U.S. Hispanic Media Market: Projections to 2010 report issued by HispanTelligence®, the research division of Hispanic Business Inc.

•Advertisers spent more than $3.3 billion to market products to U.S. Hispanics in 2005, a 6.8 percent increase from 2004.
•While traditionally Spanish-language advertising was used to reach Hispanics, new data indicate second- and third-generation Hispanics tend to favor English.
•As a result, ad spending growth in some sectors of the U.S. Hispanic market is slowing as advertisers debate which Hispanic demographic to target.

"The shift in language preference is forcing advertisers to look beyond the monolinguistic and homogeneous stereotypes of Hispanic consumers," states Juan Solana, Chief Economist at HispanTelligence®. "Advertisers are becoming more aware of the complexity of this demographic and are refining their messaging to ensure relevance."

The U.S. Hispanic Media Market: Projections to 2010 report highlights the latest research on the top Hispanic DMAs, the top advertisers in the Hispanic market, purchasing power by language preference, and top Hispanic ad agencies, as well as trends in radio, television, print, and Internet advertising to reach Hispanics. The report can be purchased online at U.S. Hispanic

Source: HispanTelligence, HispanicBusiness.com

Interracial Marriages Surge Across U.S.
by David Crary, AVID, AP National Writer
April 12, 2007

NEW YORK (AP) - The charisma king of the 2008 presidential field. The world's best golfer. The captain of the New York Yankees. Besides superstardom, Barack Obama, Tiger Woods and Derek Jeter have another common bond: Each is the child of an interracial marriage.

For most of U.S. history, in most communities, such unions were taboo. It was only 40 years ago-on June 12, 1967-that the U.S. Supreme Court knocked down a Virginia statute barring whites from marrying nonwhites. The decision also overturned similar bans in 15 other states.

Since that landmark Loving v. Virginia ruling, the number of interracial marriages has soared; for example, black-white marriages increased from 65,000 in 1970 to 422,000 in 2005, according to Census Bureau figures. Factoring in all racial combinations, Stanford University sociologist Michael Rosenfeld calculates that more than 7 percent of America's 59 million married couples in 2005 were interracial, compared to less than 2 percent in 1970.

Coupled with a steady flow of immigrants from all parts of the world, the surge of interracial marriages and multiracial children is producing a 21st century America more diverse than ever, with the potential to become less stratified by race.

"The racial divide in the U.S. is a fundamental divide. ... but when you have the 'other' in your own family, it's hard to think of them as 'other' anymore," Rosenfeld said. "We see a blurring of the old lines, and that has to be a good thing, because the lines were artificial in the first place."

The boundaries were still distinct in 1967, a year when the Sidney Poitier film "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner"-a comedy built around parents' acceptance of an interracial couple-was considered groundbreaking. The Supreme Court ruled that Virginia could not criminalize the marriage that Richard Loving, a white, and his black wife, Mildred, entered into nine years earlier in Washington, D.C.

But what once seemed so radical to many Americans is now commonplace. Many prominent blacks-including Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, civil rights leader Julian Bond and former U.S. Sen. Carol Moseley Braun-have married whites. Well-known whites who have married blacks include former Defense Secretary William Cohen and actor Robert DeNiro.

Last year, the Salvation Army installed Israel Gaither as the first black leader of its U.S. operations. He and his wife, Eva, who is white, wed in 1967-the first interracial marriage between Salvation Army officers in the United States.

Opinion polls show overwhelming popular support, especially among younger people, for interracial marriage. That's not to say acceptance has been universal. Interviews with interracial couples from around the country reveal varied challenges, and opposition has lingered in some quarters.

Bob Jones University in South Carolina only dropped its ban on interracial dating in 2000; a year later 40 percent of the voters objected when Alabama became the last state to remove a no-longer- enforceable ban on interracial marriages from its constitution.

Taunts and threats, including cross burnings, still occur sporadically. In Cleveland, two white men were sentenced to prison earlier this year for harassment of an interracial couple that included spreading liquid mercury around their house.

More often, though, the difficulties are more nuances, such as those faced by Kim and Al Stamps during 13 years as an interracial couple in Jackson, Miss.

Kim, a white woman raised on Cape Cod, met Al, who is black, in 1993 after she came to Jackson's Tougaloo College to study history. Together, they run Cool Al's-a popular hamburger restaurant-while raising a 12-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter in the state with the nation's lowest percentage (0.7) of multiracial residents.

The children are home-schooled, Kim said, because Jackson's schools are largely divided along racial lines and might not be comfortable for biracial children. She said their family triggered a wave of "white flight" when they moved into a mostly white neighborhood four years ago-"People were saying to my kids, 'What are you doing here?'"

"Making friends here has been really, really tough," Kim said. "I'll go five years at a time with no white friends at all." Yet some of the worst friction has been with her black in-laws. Kim said they accused her of scheming to take over the family business, and there's been virtually no contact for more than a year. "Everything was race," Kim said. "I was called 'the white devil.'"

Her own parents in Massachusetts have been supportive, Kim said, but she credited her mother with foresight. "She told me, 'Your life is going to be harder because of this road you've chosen-it's going to be harder for your kids,'" Kim said. "She was absolutely right." Al Stamps said he is less sensitive to disapproval than his wife, and tries to be philosophical.

"I'm always cordial," he said. "I'll wait to see how people react to us. If I'm not wanted, I'll move on." It's been easier, if not always smooth, for other couples.

Major Cox, a black Alabamian, and his white wife, Cincinnati-born Margaret Meier, have lived on the Cox family homestead in Smut Eye, Ala., for more than 20 years, building a large circle of black and white friends while encountering relatively few hassles.

"I don't feel it, I don't see it," said Cox, 66, when asked about racist hostility. "I live a wonderful life as a nonracial person." Meier says she occasionally detects some expressions of disapproval of their marriage, "but flagrant, in-your-face racism is pretty rare now."

Cox-an Army veteran and former private detective who now joins his wife in raising quarter horses-longs for a day when racial lines in America break down.

"We are sitting on a powder keg of racism powder keg of racism that's institutionalized in our attitudes, our churches and our culture," he said, "that's going to destroy us if we don't undo it."

In many cases, interracial families embody a mix of nationalities as well as races. Michelle Cadeau, born in Sweden, and her husband, James, born in Haiti, are raising their two sons as Americans in racially diverse West Orange, N.J., while teaching them about all three cultures.

"I think the children of families like ours will be able to make a difference in the world, and do things we weren't able to do," Michelle Cadeau said. "It's really important to put all their cultures together, to be aware of their roots, so they grow up not just as Swedish or Haitian or American, but as global citizens."

Meanwhile, though, there are frustrations-such as school forms for 5-year-old Justin that provide no option for him to be identified as multiracial.

"I'm aware there are going to be challenges," Michelle said. "There's stuff that's been working for a very long time in this country that is not going to work anymore."

The boom in interracial marriages forced the federal government to change its procedures for the 2000 census, allowing Americans for the first time to identify themselves by more than one racial category.

About 6.8 million described themselves as multiracial-2.4 percent of the population-adding statistical fuel to the ongoing debate over what race really means.

Kerry Ann Rockquemore, professor of African-American studies at the University of Illinois-Chicago, is the daughter of a black father and white mother, and says she is asked almost daily how she identifies herself.

The surge in interracial marriage comes at "a very awkward moment" in America's long struggle with racism, she says.

"We all want deeply and sincerely to be beyond race, to live in a world where race doesn't matter, but we continue to see deep racial disparities," Rockquemore said. "For interracial families, the great challenge is when the kids are going to leave home and face a world that is still very racialized."

The stresses on interracial couples can take a toll. The National Center for Health Statistics says their chances of a breakup within 10 years are 41 percent, compared to 31 percent for a couple of the same race.

In some categories of interracial marriage, there are distinct gender-related trends. More than twice as many black men marry white women as vice versa, and about three-fourths of white-Asian marriages involve white men and Asian women.

C.N. Le, a Vietnamese-American who teaches sociology at the University of Massachusetts, says the pattern has created some friction in Asian- American communities.

"Some of the men view the women marrying whites as sellouts, and a lot of Asian women say, 'Well, we would want to date you more, but a lot of you are sexist or patriarchal,'" said Le, who attributes the friction in part to gender stereotypes of Asians that have been perpetuated by American films and TV shows.

Kelley Kenney, a professor at Kutztown University in Pennsylvania, is among those who have bucked the black-white gender trend. A black woman, she has been married since 1988 to a fellow academic of Irish- Italian descent, and they have jointly offered programs for the American Counseling Association about interracial couples.

Kenney recalled some tense moments in 1993 when, soon after they moved to Kutztown, a harasser shattered their car window and placed chocolate milk cartons on their lawn. "It was very powerful to see how the community rallied around us," she said.

Kenney is well aware that some blacks view interracial marriage as a potential threat to black identity, and she knows her two daughters, now 15 and 11, will face questions on how they identify themselves.

"For older folks in the black community," she said "it's a feeling of not wanting people to forget where they came from."

Yet some black intellectuals embrace the surge in interracial marriages and multiracial families; among them is Harvard law professor Randall Kennedy, who addressed the topic in his latest book, "Interracial Intimacies: Sex, Marriage, Identity, and Adoption."

"Malignant racial biases can and do reside in interracial liaisons," Kennedy wrote. "But against the tragic backdrop of American history, the flowering of multiracial intimacy is a profoundly moving and encouraging development."

For more articles on interracial marriages go to:
The Love Story That Broke The Barriers of Racial Prejudice in Derby and Lasted 42 Years
40 years of interracial marriage: Mildred Loving reflects on breaking the color barrier

¿De qué se trata la Genealogía Molecular?

La Genealogía Molecular hace posible vincular a personas en "árboles familiares" basados en la identificación única de los marcadores genéticos.
Este enlace se puede llevar a cabo usando la información codificada en el ADN de una persona o de una población para determinar la consanguinidad entre individuos, familias, tribus y poblaciones. Los linajes basados en los marcadores genéticos pueden determinar vínculos que de otro modo no se podrían detectar usando genealogías basadas solamente en nombres, registros escritos o tradiciones orales. Puede que haya muchas personas con el nombre de "Juan Pérez" pero la identificación genética es exclusiva y puede diferenciar entre personas de parentesco cercano y aquellas que sólo llevan el mismo nombre. No existe ninguna persona en la tierra, que haya vivido o que vivirá, que tenga la misma composición genética. El hecho de que el ADN se herede y que cada persona sea el producto de sus progenitores, significa que se puede usar el ADN no sólo para crear identificaciones individuales, pero también para identificar a los miembros de una misma familia, del mismo clan o tribu, o de la misma población.

¿Cómo se lleva a cabo la Genealogía Molecular?
Para poder reconstruir genealogías moleculares es necesario usar los vínculos biológicos conocidos y asociar esta información con la transmisión de marcadores genéticos a través del tiempo. A medida que las personas busquen sus vínculos biológicos en el pasado, los linajes empezarán a combinarse o merger en antepasados comunes. Todas las personas heredan el material genético de sus padres. Este principio básico de transmisión genética significa que es posible determinar el origen de genes con bases en un linaje común y en los modos de herencia conocidos. Ya que este proceso se repite generación tras generación, todos los individuos llevan dentro de su ADN un registro de quiénes son y de qué forma están emparentados con otras personas en la tierra. Además, diferentes regiones del ADN tienen la capacidad de identificar a individuos, conectarlos a grupos familiares cercanos, a otros parientes, a tribus, o a afiliaciones de clanes y de poblaciones más grandes. El ADN analizado en este proceso se extrae usando métodos muy sencillos, luego en el laboratorio este material se estudia selectivamente con el fin de encontrar unos marcadores genéticos específicos (proceso que se conoce por el nombre de genotipación) y por último, la información se guarda en bases de datos electrónicas. Con el proceso de genealogía genética, o molecular, se pueden así reconstruir ciertas genealogías y se puede determinar el vínculo entre personas a través de la identificación de combinaciones de marcadores genéticos absolutamente únicos. Un marcador genético representa un lugar específico en un cromosoma en el cual las unidades genéticas básicas existen en un número variable de copias repetidas. La variante de copias en cualquier ubicación del cromosoma se conoce como alelo. Si bien dos individuos pueden compartir alelos en una o más ubicaciones, la examinación de varias docenas o de cientos de estas ubicaciones mostrará que hay diferencias aún entre personas de consanguinidad cercana. La compilación de varios marcadores genéticos es lo que se conoce como el genotipo, lo cual funciona como un identificador genético exclusivo de una persona. Para poder determinar el grado de consanguinidad entre individuos se necesita identificar aquellos genes, o marcadores, que son idénticos, por tener un ancestro común. Hay muchas maneras de poder llevar cabo esta identificación. Algunos de los sistemas genéticos de uso común para probar la consanguinidad, son los genes autosomas o los marcadores que se encuentran en los cromosomas no-sexuales (autosómicos), los cromosomas Y y el ADN mitocondrial (ADNmt). Los cromosomas existen en pares en el núcleo de toda célula, pero el ADNmt es más numeroso y se encuentra ubicado fuera del núcleo, dentro de la mitocondria. Tras cada nueva generación, los cromosomas son sometidos a una recombinación o inversión, y no pasan necesariamente intactos de una generación a otra. Esta propiedad característica de la genética introduce la diversidad que encontramos entre las personas, y es responsable por la identidad genética exclusiva que define a cada persona. Los cromosomas Y, y el ADNmt son "nuevos" en el sentido de que no son recombinados o, si lo son, es una recombinación muy limitada. El ADN de los cromosomas Y se hereda de padre a hijo y se ha notado que sigue la transmisión de los apellidos. Todos los hijos (hombres y mujeres) heredan de su madre biológica el ADNmt, pero solamente las hijas lo transmiten a la siguiente generación. Cada uno de estos sistemas puede usarse en forma diferencial para responder varias preguntas de interés genealógico.

¿Cómo se obtiene el ADN y quiénes pueden participar en el proyecto?
El ADN se puede obtener de cualquier espécimen biológico. Las fuentes más comunes incluyen la sangre, la saliva y el pelo, pero para la construcción de la base de datos de genealogía nosotros estamos recolectando muestras de celulas bucales usando un liquido llamado "GenetiRinse". Cualquier persona que tenga 18 años de edad o más puede participar en el estudio. Toda la reconstrucción genealógica propuesta en este proyecto se hace usando ADN de personas vivas, este trabajo no requiere información de personas fallecidas.

¿Por qué participar en la Genealogía Molecular?
Para algunas personas la genealogía es un pasatiempo mientras que para otras es una forma de descubrir quiénes son, sin embargo, a lo largo del mundo, existe un gran interés en los orígenes y las historias de las personas. Parte de esta información se transmite en historias orales o escritas; los registros civiles y religiosos también han documentado la historia de familias y de comunidades, pero desafortunadamente, la historia de algunos pueblos y comunidades se ha perdido o ha sido destruida a través del tiempo. Cuando esto es lo que ha sucedido, los documentos escritos no son informativos o simplemente no existen, lo cual puede ser un gran obstáculo para los individuos que están tratando de encontrar sus "raíces". Al hacer uso de los registros genéticos del pasado que tiene cada individuo, es posible descubrir pistas importantes como la consanguinidad de un individuo con otras personas o poblaciones, y su origen.

¿Cuáles son los fines más importantes de este programa?
1. Construir una base de datos mundial que determinará la composición genética de las poblaciones más grandes del mundo. Esta base de datos puede ser usada para identificar los orígenes y las relaciones de un individuo o de una familia a un antepasado desconocido. El estudio va a incluir por lo menos 500 poblaciones de todo el mundo. Los individuos de cada población van a ser identificados, se recolectará la información genealógica de por lo menos cuatro generaciones (cuando sea posible) y se determinará la información genética. La identificación de los grupos de marcadores de ADN, o haplotipos, que son únicos a una población, se usarán para determinar los orígenes específicos y los vínculos de los individuos.
2. La reconstrucción de genealogías usando la información genética. Esta información puede ser usada para remover los "bloques" genealógicos producidos por tener información incompleta o perdida, debido a la falta de registros, a hijos ilegítimos o adopción, todo lo cual impide la unión de familias. Este sistema también permitirá identificar molecularmente a parientes desaparecidos. Se establecerán nuevos vínculos genealógicos entre personas vivientes, a través de la identificación o la confirmación de supuestos linajes que actualmente son imposibles de resolver con el uso de métodos tradicionales.
3. Establecer conexiones genealógicas dentro de cada población, y también entre una población y otra.
4. Producir identificaciones únicas para personas que no tienen una genealogía basada en nombres, como es tradicional. Esto permitiría la reconstrucción de genealogías basadas en el ADN, y la propagación de un entendimiento en cuanto a los vínculos que existen entre los seres humanos en todo el mundo.
5. Preservar la herencia genética de un individuo o familia para las futuras generaciones.

Para mantener el carácter de confidencialidad, en la construcción de la base de datos solamente utilizamos los lugares y las fechas de nacimiento. No se darán resultados individuales a ninguna persona, incluyendo a aquellas que hayan participado en la construcción del banco de datos.

Si te interesa participar escribeme
Haz tu Arbol Genealogico... El Arbol mas Hermoso de la Creacion

Benicio Samuel Sanchez Garcia, Presidente
La Sociedad Genealogica del Norte de Mexico
samuelsanchez@genealogia.org.mx
http://www.genealogia.org.mx
tel: (81) 1492-6400

COURAGE1 By Wanda Garcia John F. Kennedy defined courage as the "grace with which individuals endured their challenges, the risks to their careers, the unpopularity of their courses, the defamation of their characters, and sometimes but sadly only sometimes, the vindication of their reputations and their principles."1 Papa had courage by any definition. Given the climate of the times, it was life threatening for a Mexican American to be an activist. Yet, Dr. Hector persevered in the face of these adverse conditions. Papa knew that he was doing "the right thing" despite the risks and stigma. He focused on his plan to rectify injustice, to end discrimination, and to heal the sick. And he never stopped until four months before his death in 1996. In the documentary "Justice for My People," Dr. Xico Garcia, my uncle observed, "Everyone was scared, but Hector was not. Hector was "muy macho"."2 Occasionally, Dr. Hector would comment to Willie Davila, "Willie, Somewhere out there is a bullet with my name on it." When I would drive my father around Corpus Christi, he would always tell me which routes to take. Sometimes this irritated me. Now I realize he was trying to foil any assassination attempt. My father had to live with the possibility of danger to his family members. My family received many threatening letters, phone calls and pranks because of Papa’s activism. To this day, I have no knowledge of how many death threats my father received in the course of his life. So, the possibility of his being assassinated was never far from my thoughts. Dr. Hector’s courage arose from strong moral convictions about doing "the right thing." He said, "I have a mission to help my people." Thus, he took a stand and became an advocate for those issues. He met with the Texas Education Agency about the desegregation of schools, and equalization in funding for the poorer school districts in Texas and the high dropout rates for Mexican American school children. His letters "Challenging the Poll Tax," the "South Texas War Dead Have Returned" and the letter to Senator Lyndon Johnson about "Pvt. Felix Longoria." demonstrated his passion about his mission. Another example was the eulogy he wrote for the funeral of Yolanda Cortinas, an American G.I. Forum Queen from Del Rio, Texas. Papa felt grief-stricken because she was on a trip to one of the American G.I. Forum conventions when she died in an automobile accident on August 28, 1968. Below is the English translation of an excerpt from his eulogy: Ladies and Gentlemen, Our Queen has not died because she will always live in our thoughts and in our hearts. Queen Yolanda: Beautiful woman among the beauties: Empress among the queens, and sublime queen of our heart.3 I often wondered how my father knew what was "the right thing" to do? It seemed to me that his "knowing" came from "spiritual intelligence." He never expected a reward for his efforts. The successes encouraged him to continue his work. My father turned to poetry as well as classical literature for insight. I never realized how much he enjoyed reading poetry until after his death. I was surprised when I found handwritten index cards with passages from his favorite poems in his desk drawer. One of his favorite passages came from Sir Walter Scott’s Lady of the Lake, Coronach:ii Like the dew on the mountain, Like the foam on the river, Like the bubble on the fountain, Thou art gone, and forever. During an address at the Founders’ Day banquet in 1982, Papa paraphrased Shakespeare:4 We are human. If you make us sad, we cry. If you prick us, we bleed. And if you hurt us, we remember. According to Papa, Faustina Perez Garcia his mother instilled a sense of community service and sound moral principles in her Garcia brood. My grandmother died before I was born. But I knew my grandmother through the lessons her children passed to us. One of my grandmother’s lessons was compassion for others and to help those less fortunate. My aunts would tell me my grandmother would not turn away any beggar despite the shortage of money in the Garcia household. My father would not turn a patient away despite the inability to pay for medical care. Thus, Faustina’s lesson was passed to the next generation. The vindication of Papa’s reputation and principles came later in his life. In 1995, Daniel Ruiz gave the attendees at a conference a pink paper heart with the word "courage" written in the center. Dan Ruiz told me in his youth my father had saved him from being arrested during a civil rights demonstration. That interaction with Dr. Hector inspired Dan to pursue a life of public service. Dan died about five years ago and today is recognized for his contributions to the Hispanic community. I still have the paper heart and when I look at it I remember Dan and reflect on the different meanings of courage. Many were motivated by Dr. Hector’s example not to expect financial return for their time and resources. Antonio Morales, a long time member of the American G.I. Forum, said of Dr. Hector, "People like myself have given so much time to become involved in social work because we were touched by Dr. Hector P. Garcia. We were told to be involved and to utilize our time and resources to help the community and without ever expecting anything in return."5 My father’s example inspired others. During the Pete Hernandez trial in 1951, Attorneys Gus Garcia, John Herrera and James DeAnda worked pro-bono.iii They commuted 200 miles each day from Edna to Houston, Texas because of the hostility and the threats they received from the community.6 The threats did not deter these courageous men from their course of action. Towards the end of his life Dr. Hector said, "Many people ask me if I am a hero? I am not a hero. A hero is one who serves the public. I am merely a spokesperson for the people, the poor, the hungry, the needy, minorities, and the sick. But I am not a hero"7 My father was one of my role models and my heroes. Papa would always tell me to do what you felt was right, regardless of the consequences. To this day, I am gratified by the many stories from strangers about how my father influenced their lives or how he saved the life of a family member or how a relative is named "Hector" after my father. I know that his legacy will never fade. "His truth keeps marching on."iv I learned about courage by observing his and Dr. Clotilde’s examples. I learned to persist and stand my ground under adverse situations. I also learned there are many types of courage and sometimes taking the high road earns risks and the displeasure of others. Ultimately, it is between you and spirit. And this I leave with you.

August 14, 1972, Dr. Hector P. Garcia and seventeen young Mexican-American students were arrested at a sit-in protesting the lack of cooperation of the Corpus Christi School Board in eradicating de facto segregation in the school district. Dr. Garcia is led out of the Corpus Christi School Board by a police officer. CCISD Superintendent Dana Williams follows. Photos courtesy of: Dr. Hector P. Garcia Papers, Special Collections & Archives, Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, Bell Library ^{1 John F. Kennedy, "Profiles in Courage", 1955. 2 Jeff Felts, "Justice for My People", 2002. 3 Collection of Garcia papers, Bell Library, Texas A&M University. 4 Armando Ibanez, "Dr. Hector Garcia: Social, Political Reform His Forte", 1983 Corpus Christi Caller. 5 Alex Avila, Hispanic Magazine, January/February 1996. 6 Carl Allsup, The American G.I. Forum, 1982. 7 Jeff Felts, "Justice for my People", 2002. ^{i The word courage has its origins in Latin from the word heart and is the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. ii The Coronach of the Highlanders was a lamentation by mourners over the body of a departed friend. iii Hernandez v. Texas, 347 U.S. 475 (1954) [1], was a landmark United States Supreme Court case that decided that Mexican Americans and all other racial groups in the United States had equal protection under the 14^th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. iv Battle Hymn of the Republic," was one of Dr. Hector’s favorite hymns.}}
History of Civil Rights by Latinos http://www.historycooperative.org/journals/lhr/21.1/forum_wilson.html http://www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/articles/GG/fga51.html Summary of numerous Latino desegregation court cases. A credit to our famous Latino lawyers and Latino organizations who fought for our civil rights. This is the legacy that they gave to us. It is up to us to leave a legacy for the next 50 years. http://www.historycooperative.org/journals/lhr/21.1/forum_wilson.html Rafael Ojeda
An Evening with Dolores Huerta Watsonville, California August 30, 2007 Dolores Huerta is the co-founder of the United Farm Workers and a national civil rights leader that continues to champion the rights of farm workers, women, students and working families. She was awarded the prestigious Eleanor Roosevelt Human Rights Award in 1999 by President Bill Clinton. Nationally Renowned Civil Rights, Farmworker, Labor &Women's Rights Leader Co-founder of the United Farm Workers of America (UFW) Dolores Huerta with Coretta Scott King in Salinas. Photo by PVCCDC member Bob Fitch © 1970. Social hour begins at 6pm with appetizers &refreshments! Program starts at 7pm. At the Green Valley Grill, 40 Penny Lane in Watsonville Tickets: $35.00 per person For more information, to buy tickets or to become a co-sponsor: Contact Luis Alejo at (831 726-6032 or laalejo@msn.com http://www.cruzdemocrats.org/index.php?club=pvcc<http://www.cruzdemocrats.org /index.php?club=pvcc Sent by Dorinda Moreno
Victory at Threemile Canyon Farms Dairy First UFW contract in the state of Oregon. First time farm workers in this state will be insured family medical benefits, a pension plan, regular wage increases and better working conditions. Threemile Canyon Farms Signs Union Agreement By Kristian Foden-Vencil http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/opb/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1114270 PORTLAND, OR 2007-07-16 Oregon's farm workers are celebrating a decisive victory this week, after one of the states' largest farms signed its first-ever union agreement. Kristian Foden-Vencil reports. Three mile Canyon Farms in Boardman is big. It employs about 300 people and covers an area larger than Multnomah County. For the last four years, management and union organizers have been battling over everything from wages to discrimination. But after a union vote, the company signed an agreement Sunday giving workers family medical insurance, a pension plan, two weeks of paid vacation and a raise. United Farm Workers president, Arturo Rodriguez: "I mean this really is a historic moment for farm workers in this country and this state in particular." Rodriguez hopes the agreement will become a model for other Oregon farms. Threemile Canyon management says the agreement will bring an end to all the worker disputes and allow them to focus on growing food. Below please find video, photos, news clips and press statements from the press conference announcing this victory. To find the most recent information you can visit our campaign page at: www.ufw.org/threemile. ufwofamer@aol.com United Farm Workers Sent by Rafael Ojeda
UFW President Arturo Rodriguez thanks supporters for helping Threemile Canyon Farms dairy workers to win this historic contract	Video of the press conference announcing the historic Threemile contract signing in Oregon can be viewed on website.
House Passes Solis' Bill to Honor Cesar Chavez July 10, 2007 Contact: Sonia Melendez (202) 225-5464; (202) 225-4573 Washington, D.C. - Today, the House of Representative approved H.R. 359, legislation introduced by Congresswoman Hilda L. Solis (D-CA) to honor Cesar E. Chavez. This legislation authorizes the U.S. Department of Interior to study lands important in the life of Cesar Chavez for possible inclusion into the National Park System. Currently there is no single unit of the National Park System dedicated to Latinos. "Chavez's work to protect health, the environment and workers' rights paved the way for me and many others to stand up for greater equality, to be courageous and to bring justice to those who cannot achieve it themselves," said Solis. "I am proud that the House recognized the importance of honoring his work and diversifying our National Park System by passing this legislation. I hope through this effort that future generations better understand the importance of sacrifice and improving the lives of others." Chavez was born near Yuma, Ariz., and grew up in migrant labor camps where he suffered from the poverty of a migrant worker's life. He tirelessly dedicated his life to championing the rights of farm laborers and all workers. Chavez is best known for his humility and strength in his peaceful fight to help farm workers attain social justice and freedom from exposure to poisonous chemicals, poor housing, discrimination, low wages and limited education opportunities. Along with Dolores Huerta, Chavez founded the United Farm Workers, an organization dedicated to garnering better wages, working conditions and respect for farm workers. "H.R. 359 is a powerful vehicle to introduce a new generation of Americans to the life of Cesar Chavez and the history of farm labor movement," said United Farm Workers President Arturo S. Rodriguez. "Honoring sites in Arizona, California, and other states associated with his life will keep his vital legacy alive and serve as an example for our future leaders, teaching them that through determination and hard work they can improve their own lives and communities." In order for this bill to become law, it must also be approved by the U.S. Senate and signed by the president. Companion legislation (S. 327) has been introduced in the Senate by Senators John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Ken Salazar (D-Colo.). Similar legislation introduced by Sen. McCain passed the Senate unanimously in 2003. Sent by Mercy Bautista Olvera
Whatever Happened to the Santa Ana Four? Below is interesting information on the history of four individuals deported due to their communist activity back in the 1930s through 1950s. In the early part of the 20th century many Latinos were involved with organizations whose main goal was helping the common man (worker) get fair compensation for their work. Mutualistas were groups that were formed to help workers, friends and relatives achieve some type of assistance or compensation in the form of better working conditions, wages, health and life insurances. These type of organizations often had links or came out of the philosophy that every man is equal and should be able to partake of what is available in society e.g. education, health, property (land), well being etc. Many of these groups came out of a popular ideology of the time called communism. Many Mexicans (Latinos) were drawn to this ideology and joined communistic groups because of the values the ideology presented. Many paid the price later on in life when communism became a four letter word and the immigrant became an unpopular element in society due to racist and economic developments in the nation. The second article addresses similar stories of people being deported due to political action of beliefs. It is interesting to note that the McCarran-Walter Act passed in the 1950s wasn't abolished until 1994 and has resurfaced in the new terrorism laws after nine eleven. Millions of Americans lost their jobs or even had careers destroyed because of rumors that they were a "security risk" due to their political opinions. The bill passed even though president Truman vetoed it. His reasons for veto are as follows, "The basic error of this bill is that it moves in the direction of suppressing opinion and belief. This would be a very dangerous course to take, not because we have sympathy for Communist opinions, because any governmental stifling of the free expression of opinion is a long step toward totalitarianism. ...The course proposed by this bill would delight the Communists, for it would make a mockery of the Bill of Rights and of our claims to stand for freedom in the world." Check out the highlighted area in the first article that links one of the gentleman to the Mendez case. Ricardo J. Valverde
Whatever Happened to the Santa Ana Four? Orange County seethes with immigration raids, demonized Mexicans and appeals for amnesty. 2007? No, 1951 By GUSTAVO ARELLANO Thursday, July 12, 2007 - 3:00 pm Elias Espinoza and Justo Cruz. Change the cars, replace the auto-body-repair shops with factories, and the Cypress Street Barrio in Orange would look almost exactly as it did in the 1950s. Most of the buildings in this neighborhood attest to the era when citrus was king in Southern California—quaint wooden houses, grocery stores painted with Chicano murals, and Orange County’s last operating citrus-packing house, the Villa Park Orchards Association—and the county welcomed cheap Mexican labor as long as it didn’t complain. Pioneer families (some dating back to the turn of the 20th Century) still live on Cypress Street; many current and former residents held a reunion picnic in June at Orange’s Hart Park to swap stories and pictures. Only one building looks out of place in this picturesque barrio: a two-story apartment complex at 495 N. Cypress St. It’s a tan, stuccoed eyesore, with a spartan, Brutalist aesthetic that dates it to the 1970s. The building is an ugly anomaly, but an apt one. This lot is where one of the Santa Ana Four met his fate. By the summer of 1951, Justo Cruz, Augustin Esparza, Elias Espinoza and Andres Gonzales, all born in Mexico, had lived in Orange County for decades. All were in their late 50s and had American-born children. Cruz and Espinoza were respected activists in Orange County’s Latino community, and Espinoza was an Army veteran who tended to a family of eight in a large house at 495 N. Cypress St. On the morning of Oct. 17, 1951, officers from the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) swept across Orange County’s barrios. They detained Cruz, Esparza and Espinoza, bringing them to the INS offices in Los Angeles to ask them answer the most devastating question of the day: "Are you now or have you ever been a member of the Communist Party?" And yes, in one way or another, all participated in Communist Party activities during the 1930s. But that was the past; now, in their late 50s, the men just wanted to age in peace. That didn’t matter to the feds, who shipped them—along with Gonzales, who had been caught a week earlier—to San Pedro’s notorious Terminal Island, where other immigrants suspected of subversive activities awaited deportation. In the next couple of years, the men who became known as the Santa Ana Four were symbols of the crackdown on civil liberties that characterized the home front of the Cold War. Thousands of people across the country donated money and signed petitions trying to secure their release. But the government wouldn’t hear it—within a year of arresting the Santa Ana Four, they ordered the men deported to Mexico with no chance of returning. And just like that, the Santa Ana Four disappeared. Their struggle faded from the public memory and never quite notched a place in the Orange County history books. The government moved on to nab thousands more Mexicans with their Operation Wetback, and individual stories were now too numerous to publicize. Now, the country is in a new era of anti-immigrant sentiment, this one cloaked in fear of terrorism and reconquista, rather than communism. Immigration raids, unseen for a generation, are now commonplace. Last month, immigration officersarrested 175 illegal immigrants—some with criminal records, many without—across Orange County in just one day and promised more. The week after the migra mission, the Senate allowed a proposed amnesty bill to die. The story of the Santa Ana Four is proof that an immigrant can do everything right in this county—migrate legally, work hard and raise a family—and still get deported. * * * Local and national historians celebrate the 1950s as a time of progress for Orange County. The county’s mighty citrus industry was enjoying its last hurrah, as new developments sprouted on former orange groves and strawberry fields (eight cities incorporated during the 1950s alone) and ranchers planned the transformation of South County into hilly suburbs. The county was also consolidating its reputation as a hotbed of strident conservatism. County voters helped elect local boy Richard Nixon as a California senator in 1950, a campaign notorious for his smearing of opponent Helen Gahagan Douglas as a communist sympathizer "right down to her [pink] underwear." But not everything was well in paradise. The Korean War had just started, and Mexicans were entering the country in numbers unseen since the Mexican Revolution. Many were lured by the tales of countrymen who worked on American farms as part of the wartime bracero program. And so, the country had a new mass of immigrants to fear and demonize. In 1952, Congress passed the McCarran-Walter Act, which ostensibly sought to change the racist immigration quotas set by the Immigration Act of 1924. But its most important clauses allowed the government to deport any immigrant suspected of participating in movements or organizations deemed dangerous to America. The bill was so pernicious that President Harry S. Truman vetoed it. "In no other realm of our national life," he wrote, "are we so hampered and stultified by the dead hand of the past, as we are in this field of immigration." Congress nevertheless overrode Truman’s veto, with Nevada Senator Pat McCarran, one of the bill’s authors, remarking, "We have in the United States today hardcore, indigestible blocs which have not become integrated into the American way of life, but which, on the contrary, are its deadly enemies. Today, as never before, untold millions are storming our gates for admission, and those gates are cracking under the strain." But the government didn’t even wait for the installation of the McCarran-Walter Act before targeting immigrants who had participated in the various social struggles of the turbulent 1930s. In 1948, Nixon—then a congressman—had proposed a bill that would require all Communist Party members and "sympathizers" to register with the Attorney General and submit fingerprints. The bill died in the Senate, but McCarran revived it two years later as the Internal Security Act, and Congress overwhelmingly passed it; many similar provisions exist today in the PATRIOT Act. When the feds first approached the Santa Ana Four in the summer of 1951, it was under the provisions of the Internal Security Act. Justo Cruz had the most tenuous ties to the Communist Party. During the 1930s, he joined the Worker’s Alliance (WA), an offshoot of the Works Progress Administration that served as a bargaining agency for the organization. Allegations of Communist infiltration dogged the WA, mainly because Communists and socialists were in leadership positions. But while Cruz was merely a fellow traveler, Elias Espinoza, Augustin Esparza and Andres Gonzales were all committed Commies. Gonzales—who illegally entered the country in 1915 as a 19-year-old—joined under the false name Lagardiere Pistola, along with Esparza. Espinoza, meanwhile, was a Communist Party organizer in Orange County who named two of his sons Carlos Marx and Lenin. He was so radical that organizers of the 1936 Orange County citrus strike barred Espinoza from joining their incipient union, allowing him only to address citrus workers with speeches. After the 1930s, however, the men moved on with their lives. Only Espinoza seems to have maintained ties with the Communist Party; former neighbors interviewed by the Weekly claim Espinoza held Communist Party meetings in Orange’s Cypress Street barrio during the 1940s. Cruz, meanwhile, joined the Orange County Community Chest, a loose collective of civic groups that played a crucial role in Mendez v. Westminster, the landmark case that desegregated schools in Orange County and served as direct inspiration for Brown v. Board of Education. Cruz, Esparza, Espinoza and Gonzales settled into their jobs—Cruz as a machine operator at a textile mill in Santa Ana, Esparza and Gonzales as orange pickers, Espinoza as a janitor at a packing house. They married, raised large families and participated in Orange County’s burgeoning Latino community. Until the raids. * * * Philip Colin was helping his father make tortillas before dawn on Oct. 17, 1951, when immigration officials came for Espinoza at his home at 495 N. Cypress St. The Colin family store was just down the street from Espinoza’s house. Philip was a senior at Orange High School and a classmate of Espinoza’s oldest daughter, Henna. The arrest came "as an absolute shock," he now says. "Nobody suspected anything." Esparza was also caught at home that morning; Gonzales had been put into custody the week before. La migra caught Cruz at his job. Just weeks before, FBI agents asked Cruz’s boss to fire him because of his activism. According to a flier circulated after Cruz’s arrest, the boss replied, "If business gets so bad that I have only two men working in the mill, one of them will be me. The other will be Justo Cruz." Immigration officials set bail for Esparza, Espinoza and Gonzales at $1,000, but saddled Cruz with a figure of $5,000. Deportation proceedings were started shortly after. All were charged with belonging to the Communist Party under the 1950 Internal Security Act. The evidence against the Santa Ana Four was damning. All had confessed to their affiliation with the Communist Party in the 1930s during their summer meetings with government officials; in fact, everyone except Esparza signed sworn declarations attesting to that fact. FBI officials asked Cruz to identify other Mexicans who had been involved in activism in the past in exchange for leniency, but Cruz refused. The arrest of the Santa Ana Four drew the attention of the Los Angeles Committee for Protection of the Foreign-Born (LACPFB), an organization that provided pro bono services to immigrants imprisoned for political reasons. The group, as the late UC Irvine professor Jeffrey M. Garcilazo noted in his own study of the Santa Ana Four, "proudly opposed anticommunism when it was unpopular to do so" and espoused radical views that "alienated many in the communities from which it sought support." The LACPFB’s records on the Santa Ana Four are kept at the Southern California Public Library in Los Angeles but remain incomplete—members threw away many of its internal documents for fear that the government would seize their records and prosecute members. The LACPFB immediately began an education campaign across Southern California to set the Santa Ana Four free. Fliers in English and Spanish described their ordeal, claiming that the middle-aged men were arrested "because of some ideas they supposedly held some 10 or 20 years ago." Noting their previous activism, the LACPFB asked readers in caps: WHY ARE THESE MEN TO BE DEPORTED? IS IT A CRIME TO FIGHT FOR DECENT WAGES? IS IT A CRIME TO FIGHT FOR DECENT HOUSING? IS IT A CRIME TO RESIST DISCRIMINATION IN SCHOOL? IS IT A CRIME TO REALIZE THE AMERICAN WAY OF LIFE? The flier’s author was Ladislao Cruz, a Santa Ana grocery-store owner and Justo’s only son. Ladislao, who appears to have coined the term "Santa Ana Four," would pen another letter on his father’s behalf. In "The Story of Justo Cruz," Ladislao went into further detail about his father’s activist past. "Everywhere that my father has worked," Ladislao wrote, "he has joined with others to get decent wages, to get decent conditions on the job, and to get rid of the discrimination and second-class treatment of Mexicans, Mexican-Americans, Negroes and all minority groups. "But you say, what did he do to be arrested and jailed?" Ladislao asked rhetorically in his letter. "That’s it. I’ve just finished telling you. "If a man is ‘dangerous’ because he thinks that wages should allow the worker and his family to have enough to eat and live in a decent home," Ladislao continued, "then I’ll agree—Justo Cruz is a very ‘dangerous’ man. "Many who have fought against oppression and are being persecuted by the Immigration Service, have lived here for 30 or more years, and have American-born children and sometimes grandchildren," Ladislao concluded. "Some people didn’t know these facts until someone close to them was arrested and persecuted under the McCarran Act. I was one of these. But now, with all of my heart, I urge every person to come to the defense of not only my father, but [also] every foreign born person trying to live a peaceful, useful life in this country." The LACPFB also produced a pamphlet on behalf of Espinoza. Titled "Why Joel Benjamin Espinoza, Aged 9, American, Wrote a Letter to Mr. Landon," the front page of the foldout featured a picture of the cherubic Joel, wearing a Cub Scout uniform replete with kerchief, jeans, medals and a short haircut. It also excerpted his letter, part of which read, "I a nine years old and I was in your office last Wednesday because I don’t want you to deport my father. . . . My brother Danny and I ware Cub Scouts and we need our father to take us on hikes and to Pack meetings." Inside the pamphlet was a picture of the Espinoza family: five sons; three daughters; Elias’ wife, Consuelo; and his mother-in-law. You couldn’t find a better portrait of an all-American family. One son sports a letterman’s jacket, another a Hawaiian shirt, another a baseball cap. The girls look like bobby-soxers; Consuelo and her mother smile broadly. The bespectacled Elias commands the center of the photo and wears a tie. Underneath, a paragraph read, "The Espinoza Family will be left fatherless and almost penniless if other Americans permit Elias Espinoza Sr. . . . to be deported to Mexico." While the LACPFB fought the deportations of the Santa Ana Four, Consuelo barnstormed across the country to publicize her husband’s case. She even testified before the House Committee on Un-American Activities in Washington, D.C., where she presented committee members with more than 5,000 signatures asking that Elias be released. But powerful forces worked behind-the-scenes to boot the Santa Ana Four from the United States, namely the Associated Farmers of Orange County. The organization had formed in response to the Citrus War of 1936, when more than 3,000 Latino orange pickers went on strike for the right to create a union and higher wages. The Associated Farmers—composed of the county’s citrus growers and packing houses—colluded with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the district attorney’s office and local police units to brutally suppress the strike and sought the deportation of strike leaders and even the Mexican consul (see "Gunkist Oranges," June 9, 2006). After the strike, the Associated Farmers placed many Latinos on a blacklist, a move that a 1939 congressional committee deemed illegal. Shortly after the arrest of the Santa Ana Four, the Associated Farmers put out a bulletin warning growers of "subversive activities" in the county. "Following the arrest of the four Mexican aliens, Justo Cruz, Augustine [sic] Esparza, Andres Gonzales and Elias Espinoza," the bulletin read, the LACPFB was trying to "organize the Mexican community into a left-wing pressure group" and convince them they were the "only organization striving to protect the rights of and looking for the interest of ‘oppressed’ minority groups." Ladislao Cruz’s letter claimed that the Associated Farmers fingered his father to the authorities. "The Associated Farmers want their oranges picked and packed cheaply—they want to pay starvation wages to their workers," Ladislao wrote. "And anyone who tries to get a decent wage is ‘dangerous.’" Meanwhile, Consuelo Espinoza’s campaign led her to the offices of James B. Utt, the Tustin-area congressman better remembered for his 1963 claim that the United Nations was training "a large contingent of barefooted Africans" in Georgia to "take over the United States." According to an LACPFB document, "Mrs. Espinoza quoted Congressman Utt as saying that he would like to do something about the McCarran-Walter Act but that the Associated Farmers wouldn’t let him." Another private letter in Elias Espinoza’s LACPFB file stated that Utt "intimated that he had received many requests from his constituency asking him to do something for Mr. Espinoza, but he regretted that at this moment he could do very little because the Associated Farmers of Orange County did not approve of Mr. Espinoza. He advised Mrs. Espinoza to see if she couldn’t convince the Associated Farmers to change their minds about Mr. Espinoza." * * * Eventually, the Santa Ana Four got out on bail as the government pursued their cases. The INS moved quickly to try the men. Gonzales and Esparza—whose cases never received the same notoriety as those of Cruz and Espinoza—turned themselves in for deportation in the summer of 1953; after Esparza’s case failed, LACPFB lawyer Richard W. Petherbridge told a fellow attorney, "I somehow doubt that this will terminate my contacts with the Bureau of Immigration. That this is the case is brought freshly to mind every morning on the way to work, when I drive by a concentration camp on the edge of town, into which busloads of ‘wetbacks’ are brought every day." LACPFB lawyers won an extension for Espinoza, but the government clearly wanted him gone. A director for the Los Angeles office of the INS told reporters he didn’t like the LACPFB because "they work from directives and not for the good of the individuals who are involved in deportation proceedings." He singled out Espinoza for criticism because he wouldn’t disassociate with the LACPFB. In Espinoza’s appeal hearing, Herman R. Landon—head of the Los Angeles bureau of the INS—argued that Espinoza should be deported because he "failed to make a showing" that he was of "good moral character." Espinoza lost his appeal and was ordered deported on Sept. 16, 1954—Mexican Independence Day. Justo Cruz fared better than the rest of the Santa Ana Four. The government ordered him to report for deportation on Dec. 18, 1952, much earlier than anyone else. But LACPFB lawyers won a stay by arguing Cruz was eligible to apply for discretionary relief since both of his children were severely ill and had no mother. The strategy bought him a couple of months before the government tried to deport him again in February 1953. This time, Los Angeles Councilman Ed Roybal intervened on his behalf and won Cruz a yearlong stay. Once that year finished, INS officials ordered Cruz to turn himself in on Sept. 29, 1954. During this time, FBI officials tried twice to dupe Cruz into signing his own deportation papers, according to an angry letter LACPFB lawyer William M. Samuels penned to Landon. By this time, Cruz was becoming a poster child of sorts for the way the United States treated its Mexicans. Operation Wetback was launched in 1954, and the government rounded up Mexicans—both legal and illegal—by the thousands, housing them in virtual concentration camps before shipping them back to Mexico. Cruz’s story would become one of the centerpieces in Shame of a Nation, a booklet put out by the LACPFB to illustrate the effects the government’s campaign against immigrants had on working-class people. The LACPFB persisted in trying to set Cruz free, finally winning a hearing with the Board of Immigration Appeals in Washington, D.C. The board agreed that deporting Cruz would put undue burden on his American-born children, and Cruz’s case was finally dismissed in 1959. There was one catch: A letter dated Aug. 13, 1959, written by Samuels to the INS revealed that immigration authorities put Cruz under permanent parole, requiring him to meet with the INS monthly for the rest of his life. Samuels asked that a yearly written report instead be filed, as there was "no reasonable basis for the requirement." It’s not known whether the INS complied with Samuels’ request. Nevertheless, Cruz was free, and he retired to his Santa Ana home. He died on Dec. 2, 1971, at age 83. * * * Last week, Sylvia Mendez and Sandra Robbie rode their orange Volkswagen bus in Huntington Beach’s Fourth of July parade. The two ladies have spent the past couple of months crisscrossing the United States in the van, spreading the gospel of Mendez v. Westminster, of which Sylvia was a plaintiff. But parade organizers rejected their application. They initially told Mendez and Robbie they "didn’t have enough entertainment value." After the two raised a well-deserved stink in the local media, an organizer confessed to Orange County Register columnist Yvette Cabrera "nobody had heard of this issue. . . . The history of this was totally unknown to the committee." Thus goes Orange County’s Latino history. Latinos have always played a major role in the Orange County story, but many of their contributions get ignored. The Great Flood of 1938, the aforementioned 1936 Citrus War, Mendez v. Westminster,and the Santa Ana Four. There are only parenthetical mentions of the Santa Ana Four in history books, daily newspaper clippings of the time and oral histories. Do a Google search on the Four, and you’ll find "McCarthyism, Mexican Americans, and the Los Angeles Committee for Protection of the Foreign Born, 1950-1954," an article by Garcilazo in the 2001 issue of the academic journal Western Historical Quarterly—but little else. Not even the Orange County Mexican American Historical Society, the county’s preeminent archives on local Latino history, had heard of the case when contacted for this story. What’s even more telling about the mysteries of OC’s Latino past is that many of the people with firsthand knowledge of the Santa Ana Four either wouldn’t speak to the Weekly or had conflicting memories of the events. Augie Morales remembers the Espinozas well. Now 71 years old and living in San Diego County, Morales graduated from Orange High School in 1954 and was good friends with Elias Espinoza’s son Carlos Marx. "When they deported [Elias], the family was flabbergasted," he says. "They didn’t know which way to go. It came as a shock to all of us." Morales says the Espinozas quickly became the subject of ridicule in the tight-knit Cypress Street barrio because of Elias’ Communist affiliation. "They disappeared for a long time," he says. "I’ll tell you the truth: I don’t think anyone knew where they went. I don’t know whether they went to Mexico, or they were here in Southern California. I don’t think anyone does." A couple of years ago, Morales attended a high school reunion for his graduating class. "They called out all of us, and we stood up to be recognized. Then they mentioned Carlos Espinoza. I didn’t recognize him, but I remembered the name. We hadn’t spoken since the 1950s. I asked him, ‘You know who I am?’ ‘No, I don’t know who you are,’ he said. I told him who I was. He started laughing. We sat down to talk." Morales says Espinoza claimed he was a professor at Cal State Fullerton, but university archives don’t show him as having taught there. "He and I were pretty good buddies," Morales says. "But he never came back to the reunions, and I never spoke to him again." Philip Colin also attended school with some of the Espinozas. After Elias’ deportation, Colin says, Consuelo moved her children to another house in Orange and worked to support them. "She was a friendly woman, but she always seemed tired," Colin says. "The children graduated from college and just spread out. You heard about them from time to time, but not that much." Philip’s brother Bob has stronger memories of the Espinozas; his brother-in-law married Henna, Elias’ oldest daughter. Bob, who still lives in Orange County, doesn’t recall Henna or any of her brothers ever discussing their father’s deportation. "He ended up moving to Tijuana and died just a couple of years ago," he says. "I never heard the kids really talk about him. They were all pretty smart. One became a minister, a couple of others became correctional officers; I think [Carlos] is a musician in Corona." Henna Espinoza now lives in Connecticut; she refused to comment for this story. Ladislao Cruz, Justo’s son, died in 2000 and left two sons, Randolph and Justus. Justus now lives in Pflugersville, Texas, and did not return repeated calls from the Weekly; Randolph’s whereabouts are unknown. As for Esparza and Gonzales, no one interviewed for this story had heard of the two, nor are there any death certificates on file in the Orange County Record/Clerk’s office. GARELLANO@OCWEEKLY.COM
Immigrants as Law-Abiding Members of U.S. Society: The Myth of Immigrants as a Crime Problem http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/immigration Despite the wailing in Congress and from the restrictions crowd about the "criminal alien" problem, the evidence continues to grow that immigrants are more likely to abide by the law than U.S. citizens. We have posted some of the reports, including some by UC Irvine prof Ruben Rumbaut (here and here). The latest study is "Why are Immigrants' Incarceration Rates so Low? Evidence on Selective Immigration, Deterrence, and Deportation" by Kristin F. Butcher and Anne Morrison Piehl. Abstract: The perception that immigration adversely affects crime rates led to legislation in the 1990s that particularly increased punishment of criminal aliens. In fact, immigrants have much lower institutionalization (incarceration) rates than the native born - on the order of one-fifth the rate of natives. More recently arrived immigrants have the lowest relative incarceration rates, and this difference increased from 1980 to 2000. We examine whether the improvement in immigrants' relative incarceration rates over the last three decades is linked to increased deportation, immigrant self-selection, or deterrence. Our evidence suggests that deportation does not drive the results. Rather, the process of migration selects individuals who either have lower criminal propensities or are more responsive to deterrent effects than the average native. Immigrants who were already in the country reduced their relative institutionalization probability over the decades; and the newly arrived immigrants in the 1980s and 1990s seem to be particularly unlikely to be involved in criminal activity, consistent with increasingly positive selection along this dimension. Source: From Professor Bill Hing's blog comes this report posted by the Associate Dean of Students at my alma mater, King Hall at U.C. Davis. (see below) Sent by: Ana Maria Patino, Esq. 668 N. Pacific Coast Hwy., #299 Laguna Beach, California 92651 (949) 290-1056 Sent by arwen24@cox.net
TOP AWARDS HANDED OUT AT 78TH ANNUAL LULAC CONVENTION, NAMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS AND ADOPTS LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM Albuquerque is chosen as the site of the National Convention for 2010 Chicago, IL The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) conducted its national elections the final day of the 2007 LULAC National Convention, and adopted 42 resolutions on key issues impacting the Hispanic community. Rosa Rosales of San Antonio was re-elected President of the largest and oldest Hispanic membership organization in the country. The following members were elected to the LULAC Executive Committee by the National Assembly on Saturday: Rosa Rosales, President Jessica Martinez, National Youth President Jaime P. Martinez, National Treasurer Margaret Moran, National President for Women Bertha Urteaga, National Vice President for Youth Vivian Feliciano, National Vice President Southeast Michelle Pelayo, National Vice President for Young Adults Richard Fimbres, National Vice President for the Elderly Toula Politis Lugo, National Vice President Northeast Adrian Rodriguez, National Vice President Southwest Maria D. Rodriguez Salazar, National Vice President Northwest Alicia Rios, National Vice President Midwest Angel Luevano, National Vice President Farwest Immediately upon being sworn in Ms. Rosales reappointed Ray Velarde as National Legal Advisor, Luis Vera as General Counsel and Ray Mancera as National Parliamentarian. The following awards were presented at the President's Banquet: The Man of the Year Award, Alex Maldonado, Anaheim, CA #2848 The Women of the Year Award, Charlotte DeVaul, Anaheim, CA #2848 The Angie Garcia Award, Blanca Vargas Council of the Year Award, San Antonio #2 Raymond Telles Award for Education, Ana Estrada Aztec Award for Civil Rights, Pablo Martinez who handed it over to Manuel Rendon Anita Del Rio Award for Latina Leadership and Women's Advocacy,Sylvia Gonzalez Cesar Chavez Award for Leadership and Community Service, Luis Vera J. C. Martinez Award for Membership and Expansion, Richard Chavez To read the resolutions adopted by the National Assembly, go to: http://www.LULAC.org LULAC National Office, 2000 L Street, NW, Suite 610 Washington DC 20036, (202) 833-6130, (202) 833-6135 FAX Sent by Larry Luera
Latinos Absent from Primetime TV http://splendoronline.com/index.php?/articles/read/latinos_absent_from_primetime_tv Source: Splendor Magazine CBS-owned station, WBBM-Channel 2, recently removed Antonio Mora, the market’s first and only Hispanic news anchor, from its newscast at 10 p.m. and replaced him with Rob Johnson. Despite the growing presence and influence by Latinos in the Chicago market, our community continues to receive poor coverage on the network news. A 2006 National Association of Hispanic Journalists report, "Network Brownout Report," believes ‘the lack of Latino journalists and managers working at the networks is the primary reason for dismal coverage of the Latino community.’ WBBM-Channel 2’s president and general manager, Joe Ahern, and Carol Fowler, its news director, plan to contribute to this trend by cutting us (Latinos) off their 10 p.m. newscast. We are asking for your support in demanding that Channel 2 reverses their decision and deliver the Hispanic community of Chicago with the representation and coverage we deserve. We need your letters addressed to: Carol Fowler, News Director Joe Ahern, President and General Manager CBS Chicago 630 N McClurg Ct CBS Chicago, Illinois 60611

SUMMARY SHEET: NATIONAL HISPANIC CIVIL RIGHTS OUTREACH PROJECT

This project seeks to increase public awareness about the origins and development of the Hispanic Civil Rights movement from the mid 1940’s until the mid 1960’s. In addition, this project will focus on some leaders of the movement; Dr. Hector P. Garcia, Dr. George I. Sanchez and Attorney Gustavo Garcia, examine the tactics, strategies, and leadership styles and the critical issues of each decade such as inaccessibility to health care, infant mortality, diarrhea, and discrimination. It will include three components.

Outreach to a targeted audience to include school children, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Veterans Groups, Hispanic activist groups; Develop a broad range of educational materials for various groups; Research. The grant would facilitate the creation the educational materials such as the display, PowerPoint presentation, research and development of an outreach program. The project is working in cooperation with the University of Texas A&M, the American G.I. Forum Archives, and a variety of other public and private sector organizations.

Problem: This outreach program has the unique historical mission to promote and preserve the legacy of the Hispanic Civil Rights movement. The Hispanic population is the fastest growing minority group in the United States. Yet few Hispanics know the history or have access to materials about the Hispanic Civil Rights movement. Furthermore, this historical data is absent in public school educational curriculum. Few Hispanics under the age of 30 recognize the names of the leaders of the movement, men such as Dr. Hector P. Garcia, Dr. George I. Sanchez, and Attorney Gustavo Garcia.

Need: Knowledge about the life experiences of Hispanic parents and grandparents will pass with these generations if not documented orally or in writing. If our youth is not made aware of the difficulties and challenges faced by the pioneers of the civil rights movement and their predecessors, this piece of history will be lost forever. This project seeks to educate by bringing awareness of the past, foster cultural pride and an understanding of the Hispanic Civil rights movement. The project will bring history to life by using copies of original documents, photographs from the Dr. Hector P. Garcia collection at Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX.

This project will Make an important contribution to the understanding of the intellectual development and leadership and philosophy of the movement. Increase knowledge of the origins and development of the Civil Rights Movement, its distinctive tactics, strategies, ideologies and leadership styles. Highlight important historical issues. Create a broad range of educational materials for a variety of groups.

Contact: Wanda Daisy Garcia, daughter of Dr. Hector P. Garcia

Documentary: Justice for my People, The Hector P. Garcia Story was produced by KEDT, Corpus Christi, Texas. Excellent, 90-minute factual chronology of Dr. Garcia's dedication in championing the rights of Mexican Americas. Jeff Felts producer. Information go to www.JusticeformyPeople.org

Dr. Hector P. Garcia Highway Honor
By Jaime Powell (Contact) Thursday, May 24, 2007

Motorists traveling north on Interstate 37 take the State Highway 286 (Crosstown Expressway) exit Wednesday during their afternoon commute. Sen.Juan 'Chuy' Hinojosa passed legislation Tuesday to rename the Crosstown Expressway between Interstate 37 and South Padre Island Drive (State Highway 358) the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Highway.

CORPUS CHRISTI - The stretch of the Crosstown Expressway winding near the late civil rights pioneer Dr. Hector P. Garcia's office soon will carry his name.
Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, passed legislation Tuesday that creates the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial between Interstate Highway 37 and South Padre Island Drive, along the Crosstown Expressway (State Highway 286) route.

Garcia gained national attention in the late 1940s when he secured full military burial honors for a Hispanic World War II veteran initially turned away from a Live Oak County funeral home and segregated cemetery. He went on to serve as an adviser to Presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Jimmy Carter and served as the first Hispanic on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

"Dr. Hector is a national treasure and a hero in Texas, and his memory will always be in the hearts and minds of the Corpus Christi community, so it's only fitting that we rename the portion of the Crosstown Expressway which is in the heart of the city in his name," Hinojosa said.

The expressway, which is a few blocks from the doctor's old office, will maintain its identity, but the Texas Department of Transportation will put up signs on both ends of the route in the next couple of months designating it as a memorial highway, said Ismael Soto, the highway department's director of transportation operations.
It's a fitting honor, said 85 year old Gilbert Oropez, a longtime friend and protege of Garcia's.

"He did a lot of good for the city, he did a lot of good for the community and a lot of good for the people of the area," Oropez said. "I have been there since day one -- when it started in 1948. Along the way, people have forgotten him. We are still struggling to keep his name up and his organizations the way he had it."

Contact Jaime Powell at 886-3716 or powellj@caller.com
Sent by Wanda Garcia

Mexican History Exhibits and Videos Team Sought

Hi, Mimi -

I'm thinking of establishing a team that would produce exhibits and videos for museums on various aspects of Mexican History that Mexican Americans would most likely want to know about. The museums would not only schedule the exhibits but would stock our books in their gift shops for a period before, during and after the time during which the exhibits are in place. Not only that, but we will be forming a group of authors with similar themes in this area so that we could display each others' books whenever we sign up for a table at a book fair. We'll have portable posters and other graphics designed to include all of the authors involved.

Currently, I have my "flagship" book on the market in English. It's entitled Cinco de Mayo: What is Everybody Celebrating? It's the first college-level book about this topic in more than 60 years, and is receiving some very nice endorsements and reviews from universities and museums. It attained #5 on the Austin best-seller list during the week which involved May 5 this year. It has been entirely translated into Spanish by my nephew, who is a published author in Mexico. A team of Spanish teachers will be working with us in July to spin off a "student" edition for those who are taking Spanish courses in the U.S., while the Spanish manuscript will also be fine-tuned for sale in the Mexican market and for native Spanish speakers. That will be followed in 2009-2010 by a novel in both languages, based on the flagship nonfiction book. The flagship book is attracting buyers who are mostly over 40, and we are hoping that the novel will attract the post-high-school but under 40 group.

This is all just in the "talking" stage right now, but we'd like to have your input as we proceed.

Thanks! Don Miles

Documentary on Viet Nam produced by Latino film producer, Charley Trujillo. We can add it to our list to help us produce and document our Latino contributions and accomplishments. Trujillo has his Bios and teaching events at the University. http://www.chusmahouse.com/titles.htm
Do a google search for information on Charley.
Sent by Rafael Ojeda

Book: 500 Years of Chicana Women's History
Bilingual Edition
Edited by Elizabeth (Betita) Martínez

The history of Mexican Americans spans more than five centuries and varies from region to region across the United States. Yet most of our history books devote at most a chapter to Chicano history, with even less attention to the story of Chicanas.

500 Years of Chicana Women's History offers a powerful antidote to this omission with a vivid, pictorial account of struggle and survival, resilience and achievement, discrimination and identity. The bilingual text, along with hundreds of photos and other images, takes readers from female-centered stories of pre-Columbian
Mexico to profiles of contemporary social justice activists, labor leaders, youth organizers, artists, and environmentalists, among others. With a distinguished, seventeen-member advisory board, the book presents a remarkable combination of scholarship and youthful appeal.

In the section on jobs held by Mexicanas under U.S. rule in the 1800s, readers find they range from a flamboyant saloon owner in Santa Fe to a respected curandera near San Diego. Also covered are the "repatriation campaigns" of the Midwest during the Depression that deported both adults and children, 75 percent of whom were U.S.-born and knew nothing of Mexico. Other stories include those of the garment, laundry, and cannery worker struggles, told from the perspective of Chicanas on the ground. >From the women who fought and died in the Mexican Revolution to those marching with their young children today for immigrant rights, every story draws inspiration. Like the editor's previous book, 500 Years of Chicano History (still in print after 30 years), this thoroughly enriching view of Chicana women's history promises to become a classic.

Elizabeth (Betita) Martínez is a widely known Chicana writer, activist, and lecturer. In 2005, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, one of a thousand women from 150 countries. Now director of the Institute for Multiracial Justice in San Franciso, she has published six books, most recently De Colores Means All of Us: Latina Views for a Multi-Colored Century.

320 PAGES . 600 B&W ILLUSTRATIONS . PAPER $23.95 . 978-0-8135-4224- NACCS SPECIAL! 20% off! Check payable to Longleaf Services, Inc.
RUTGERS UNIVERSITY PRESS
Mail: Longleaf Services, Inc., PO Box 8895, Chapel Hill, NC 27515-8895
Phone: 800-848-6224 .http://www. rutgerspress.rutgers.edu . Fax: 800-272-6817
To receive notification of similar titles and discounts, subscribe to RU Reading? at http://rutgerspress.rutgers.edu/subscribe.html

Sent by Dorinda Moreno

Finding and Documenting the Military Service of Loved Ones

Most of the current searches that I have been doing is on our WWII veterans for the upcoming airing of PBS "The War" on September 23. Here are some of the web site that have numerous links to other resources on searching for names and records of veterans and medal awarded to them. If you can get copies of the individual that you are trying to find it is better to have a copy of their DD form 214 (Military discharge paper, which list all the awards), or when you do what I call a shot-gun search, just enter their names. If too many same names come up try just entering the State, bounty or cities that they enlisted at plus the dates of services IE 1940-1946 or 1950-1953. It a lot easier and accurate to search by name Serial Number, which were used up until 1959. Now we use Social Security numbers of which you haveto be careful for financial securities. I have included also the web site for Medal Awards, many time you may only have the actual medals and you can compare with the photos of the medal and click the name of the medal for more info. Some of the other sites that I have listed below are for registering veterans names and awards. Some required special forms online other you submit and once they verify the name you can edit or enter photos or documents. As you learn how to use these web sites please share with your friends and families or veterans to encourage others to do the same. Thank you.

1. http://www.tioh.hqda.pentagon.mil/Awards/Ribbons/OrdersofPrecedence.htm
2. http://aad.archives.gov/aad/series-list-jsp?cat=WR26 (only for WWII)
3. http://www.archives,gov/st-louis/military-personel/other-helpful-sities.html
4. http://www.archives.gov/research/military

5. Judy Baca Romero from "Hispanic America USA" will include new Purple Heart Medal recipients inher web site, which other web sites copy from hers IE: Wikipedia and others. You can email info to her at: 1stbooks@neta.com .

We need more Latinos/as Historians, researchers and film producers. if you notice many of these web sites have all the other minorities, but not Hispanos/Latinos. We have to submit our own data to these web sites so that our children and researchers can find our contributions and accomplishments. I will keep on preaching this theme until the day I die. God Bless. Rafael Ojeda

Purple Heart Project

The listing of Purple Heart recipients is incomplete, and I'm sure that are many
recipients, such as me, who have not been included. I just don't want to ensure that folks don't get a impression that the list is complete. Regards.-- Nick Aguilar

A great recourse for Chicanos and Latino's in Vietnam is author Charley Trujillo from San Jose, CA. He wrote many books on the subject and may be able assist in identifying purple Heart recipients.....Felix Galaviz

According to the new Purple Heart Hall of Honor museum in NY State Park, there are over 800,000 recipients, most of the lists that I have seen have less than a 1000 names. We have a long ways to go to get all of them registered. That is why is so important for recipients and families members to register them with the these different web sites that I have been passing out. Along with the WA DC National Library of Congress and PBS local stations that will be accepting oral interviews and video of WWII veterans on September 23 for "The War" documentary. Also Judy Baca Romero, producer of her on web site at "Hispanic America USA" and her email at: 1stbooks@neta.com will be glad to add any Purple Heart Medal recipient to her list.

Apparently the State of NY Park will be the National Archives for collecting the names of the recipients of the Purple Heart Medal. This web site is soliciting the input of the names of recipients of this Medal. http://www.amervets.com/phmedl.htm
http://nysparks.state.ny.us/news/press/view.asp?pressID=506

Information:
This web site has Purple Heart Recipients. You can click the Spanish surname to see
the bio on the Latino recipients.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Recipients_of_the_Purple_Heart_medal http://www.military.com/MilitaryReport/0,12914,86437,00.html

Interesting bit of history is why we cannot search by race: Mexicans were classified as "the other whites" as per Texas segregation school Court cases.
http://aad.archives.gov/aad/series-list.jsp?cat=WR26

Sent by Rafael Ojeda
253-576-9547 Tacoma, WA

My Friend Leonardo

Hola Gente, this letter/request is from a Sandra Cantu and her husband Boris Cardenas. Please contact them for details read the letter from Sandra regarding her friend Leonardo.

Although Leonardo was a full year older than me, he was smaller and weaker. We both loved bikes, dirt, trees, and baby dolls - and getting into just about everything. The youngest child of a single mom who had very little and yet, he had what seemed to me to be an amazing abundance of toys, trips, and nice clothes. And he was so sick that I sometimes wouldn't see him for weeks at a time. While both his toys and absences were an enigma to me, I was always glad when he was well enough to get back to our continuing childhood adventures.

In March 1976, my family immigrated to the United States, and I said goodbye to Leonardo for the last time. We had been here for only three months when I received a letter from another good friend. I will never forget those first few words, written in the neat handwriting of a 10-year-old: "Dear Friend, please believe me what I am about to tell you because I would never lie about something like this…." She went on to tell me that Leonardo had lost his life to an illness called leukemia, and that the toys, the trips, and the clothes were actually paid for by a local shop owner, old Don Emilio, who had determined to make Leonardo's last days on earth resemble an ideal childhood.

I will never forget Leonardo. That's one of the biggest reasons why I am training for a marathon to raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), an organization dedicated to finding a cure for blood-related cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and Hodgkin's disease. Through its funding for research, education, patient aid, and community service programs, LLS helps improve the survival rate and quality of life for leukemia patients and their families.

It is in his memory that I finish this marathon. He never had access to effective medical treatment, but thanks to research funded by LLS, the Leonardos of today will have a fighting chance. In fact, the survival rate for the most common form of leukemia has improved from 4% in 1960 to more than 80% today. And the Society sponsors efforts worldwide. In 2006, the Society invested $61.6 million to support more than 480 research projects in 15 countries on five continents.

My goal is to raise $2,500 by October and to make it to the finish line of the Women's Nike Marathon in hilly San Francisco (whew!) on October 7. My training is going well. I am able to make it up to nine miles, and I'm still improving.

Please consider pledging your hard-earned dollars to this cause. You can donate on the internet by visiting my fundraising web page at http://www.active.com/donate/tntsac/tntsacSCantu

With love and gratitude, Sandra Cardenas
Boris.Cardenas@asm.ca.gov 916-319-3800

Venus Perez speaks about HIV/AIDS . . .I'm Still Here

My name is Venus Perez. I am 41 years old and I am diagnosis with AIDS since 1987. I was exposed by an ex-partner who died in 1987. Many people I knew with the disease are no longer alive. 2 other people, and myself are long term survivors of this disease. Just like a person who is going through the stages of death and dying, many HIV/AIDS individuals get stuck in these stages. HIV/AIDS has changed America. For 25 year it has brought out the worst in us at first, but ultimately brought out the best, and transformed the nation. Its mark has affected our history, culture and our souls. I am presently disabled but my health has improved tremendously.
I try to be very active in the community assisting other nonprofit organizations as a Certified HIV Pre & Post Tester and a HIV Support Group Facilitator.

My reason for my letter is because your organization is always striving to give useful information to the public audience. I have used the information in this book in a recent summer series 2006 in which, empowered many individuals and families infected and affected with this disease. Normally I would not expose my disease to the world because of the stigma that comes with it, But in 2007 I am asking community members to step up and help us to make a difference with this pandemic. I am only one person, and boy can I use the help. Unfortunately, it will a long time until a vaccine is found. My concern is, with all the HIV/AIDS information on the internet unfortunately, many people do not have access to a computer or the information available. People will perish for lack of knowledge.

As it is written on the Kaiser Family Foundation:
HIV/AIDS Policy Fact Sheet-December 2006 Women and Young People
*Among Women, Latinas account for 16% of new AIDS cases in 2005. Black women account for 67% and white women account for 16%. (1,7,9)
*Latinas represent 22% of AIDS cases diagnosed among Latinos in 2005.: by comparison, white women represent 14% of cases among whites, and Black women represent 35% of cases diagnosed among Blacks (1,9)
*The AIDS case rate per 100,000 among Latinas (26.4) was nearly 6 times higher than the case rate for white women (2,1).(1,9)
Latino teens, aged 13-19, accounted for 14% of AIDS cases among teens compared to 16% of all U.S teens in 2004. (2)
Latinos aged 20-24 accounted for 23% of new AIDS Cases reported among young adults, but represented 18% of U.S young adults, in 2004 (2)

Visit my website: www.venusperez.com more details future down the page.
Trafford Publishing at: www.trafford.com (Enter Title & Author name)
HORIZONBYV@aol.com 407-831-3091


PREPARING FOR HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH www.SomosPrimos.com/heritage.htm
Editor: Below is a list of documentaries for celebrating and promoting our heritage. The first one on the list will be aired this month, August, on PBS. I strongly recommend positive comments to the PBS stations that air the documentary, and if the documentary is for sale. Buy copies and give them to schools in your area. It will help to counteract the damage that Ken Burns' THE WAR will be doing in the hearts and minds of our youth.
	Video Tapes and Films Just Out . . The Borinqueneers, Premieres August 2007 on PBS History of 65 Regiment of Infantry and battles in the Korean front
	Hispanics in America's Defense This DVD prepared by Disneyland artist Eddie Martinez is solid history presented in a very visual way with maps and figures accurate in every detail. Perfect for classroom and poster uses. Available for PC or MAC at: www.eddiemartinezart.com/hispanics.html e.martinez@animas.net
Hispanics, Arturo Madrid 29 minutes, color video, PBS Video, 1989 As a teacher, Arturo Madrid offers his insights on the issues and policies affecting the Latino community in this segment of "A World of Ideas with Bill Moyers." In particular, Madrid focuses on the controversy over bilingual education and the state of education for minority and Hispanic people. Hispanic America, 13 minutes, color vid, CBS - TV Hispanics, the nation's fastest growing minority, are still feeling stereotypes and prejudice, but they are sharing information on their special problems and needs through cable TV networks and newspapers, joining together to gain political power. Although the demographics quoted in this program are outdated, it is still a good introduction for use in classrooms from junior high school on up, as well as with adult groups. Power, Politics and Latinos, 60 minutes, color video, PBS Video, 1992 This documentary examines the history and impact of Latino voting patterns in the United States, exploring the perceptions and voting practices of two Southern California Latino families -- one Republican and the other Democrat. By examining the different generations of each family, the program probes their often contradictory points of view and demonstrates that neither the Democratic nor the Republican party has a lock on the Latino vote. Produced by the National Latino Communications Center, KCET Los Angeles, and Galan Productions. Viva La Causa - 500 Years of Chicano History, 60 minutes total - 2 color videos Part One - pre-Colombian times to World War II; Part Two - WWII to the present. Accompanied by a curriculum guide and a photo book. Southwest Organizing Project, 1995 These videos are part of the Chicano History Teaching Kit which consists of the videos, as well as "A Curriculum Guide for Elementary and Secondary School Teachers" and the paperback book "500 Years of Chicano History in pictures". The two part video offers a compelling introduction to the history of Mexican American people. Based on the accompanying book, the video is suitable for grades 5-12 and up, as well as community gatherings. Archival footage, narrators, and lively music ranging from corridos to rap have been added to the photos. Part One of the videos depicts the Mexican American people from their origins in Europe's invasion of the continent up to World War II. Part Two takes us from the war, through the Chicano Movement years, to the present. This is a unique tool to help fill a major gap in knowledge about the people who make up the United States.
RESOURCES: Hispanic Heritage Month gives us the opportunity of celebrating our Latino heritage in a very public way. Below is information and resources that will help businesses, schools, public agencies, and individuals to promote a sense of respect for our Hispanic heritage. A gift to your community community would be to request a proclamation from your City or County Boards. Be sure and get a copy of the signed document to your local newspaper. The Heritage website, www.SomosPrimos.com/heritage.htm was developed to help classroom teachers and youth leaders celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. DID YOU KNOW? SABIA USTED QUE? Las Americas... Then and Now Learn and discover how Hispanic/Latino achievements and accomplishments have contributed in making America great! LaRed Latina wishes to congratulate Helen Rael Giddens for compiling, researching and preparing this interesting and compelling historical manuscript. DID YOU KNOW .... ......that when the Spaniards encountered the Americas, they did not realize that what they had actually found was another old world which was just as diverse and rich in its own culture a s their own. They were not prepared for the magnificence of its structures nor the sophistication of its people. They were astounded by the splendor and organization of their marketplaces and in the harmony and order in which the people worked and lived. Unfortunately and tragically, the Spaniards considered the indigenous people as being less than human and therefore, discounted the richness of their culture. So began the pillaging, destruction and decimation of the people by war, by diseases, and by the forcible removal of ten million people from their African home to serve as plantation slaves in the Americas. We are the children of the conquest, torn between pride in our Spanish heritage and outrage at the treatment of our indigenous ancestors. We are the inheritors, not only of the pain and betrayal, but also of the achievements which changed the ethnic composition, diets, and health of the world forever. DID YOU KNOW .... ......that tomatoes, potatoes, beans, corn, peppers (chili and bell), squash, chocolate, vanilla, tobacco, pumpkin, cassaba root, avocado, peanuts, pecans, cashews, pineapples, blueberries, sunflowers, petunias, black-eyed susans, dahlias, marigold s, poinsettias, quinine, turkeys, and wild rice are part of the exchange with the old world? ......that the old world's contribution to the Americas was the horse, cattle, pig, sheep, chicken, honeybee, wheat, Asian rice, barley, oats, soy, sugar cane, onion, lettuce, okra, peach, and pear, watermelon, citrus fruit, banana, lilac, daffodil , tulip, daisy, dandelion, and crabgrass? ......that the Spanish and Portuguese explorers were people of mixed ethnicities. When they first encountered the Americas, they came without women, and due to this marriage of blood and cultures, the new mestizo people, who compose most of today's Latino population, were created. ......that in the first fifty years of the conquest, Royal customs agents in Seville, Spain's only official port of entry from the Americas, recorded twenty thousand tons of silver entering at this time.($4 billion in today's market)? ......that between 1500 and 1650, the gold from the Americas added at least 180-200 tons to the European treasure ($2.8 billion)? The churches of Europe still moan under the weight of the gold and silver taken from the Americas. ......that the Aztec understanding of diseases and its treatment became the basis for modern medicine and pharmacology? Their pharmacists (papiani) concocted emetics, purges, febrifuges, and skin ointments (petroleum jelly), as well as underarm deodorants, toothpaste, and breath fresheners. ......that the first university in North America was the Real y Pontifica Universidad de Mexico, founded in 1551? ......that the first Zoo in North America was commissioned by Aztec Emporer Moctezuma II in 1506? ......that the first newspaper in North America was "La Gaceta de Mexico" printed in 1667. ......that the Aztecs discovered rubber, and it was Silvestre Diaz de la Vega who later discovered the method by which rubberized cloth was made perfectly impermeable? He ranks among the best known contributors to the rubber industry. ......that it was not until 1528 that the expeditionary Cabeza de Vaca crossed the Aztlan territory for the first time? It took an entire century for the Spaniards to establish its first permanent colony in Texas. DID YOU KNOW .... ......that Don Juan de Oñate and a group of explorers celebrated the first Thanksgiving near present-day El Paso, Texas, 23 years prior to the arrival of the Pilgrims? ......that Juan de Oñate, the first governor of New Mexico, was born in Zacatecas, Mexico? He married the great granddaughter of Hernan Cortes , the Spanish conquerer of Nueva Espana, and Isabel Moctezuma , the daughter of the Aztec Emporer Moctezuma II. Oñate's wife's name was Isabel de Tolosa Cortes Moctezuma. ......that the first theatrical play given in the United States was performed by the Spanish at San Juan de los Caballeros, New Mexico, in 1598 . Captain Marcos Farfan de los Godos, a member of the Oñate expedition, wrote, p roduced and directed the play? ......that the language of the Spanish-speaking people of New Mexico is a mixture of Spanish, Portuguese, and Nahuatl? Many are products of Portuguese fathers and Native American mothers. This is evident in the muster rolls of the Spanish entradas in New Mexico, and Colorado. ......that two hundred years before the birth of George Washington, the Spanish, along with the people from the Americas, had founded schools, missions, towns, and new and exotic lands which they named Nuevo Mexico, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, California, etc.? ......that the Spanish were the first European colonizing power to issue a set of laws specifically designed to protect the rights of subject Indian peoples in the Western Hemisphere? DID YOU KNOW .... ......that the roots of Spanish ranching were planted in the Americas on January 2, 1494, when Columbus, on his second voyage, unloaded twenty four stallions, ten mares, and and unknown number of cattle off the northern coast of Hispaniola, near present day Cape Haiten, Haiti? ......that the vaqueros or cowboys of the 1750's were mestizos (a mixture of Native Americans, Spaniards, and Portuguese.) ......that before the English colony was established in North America, a single rancher in the province of Jalisco was branding more than 30,000 calves a year? ......that today, the American ranch is a near perfect replica of the Iberian model, from its architecture, horses and cattle right down to the corrals, the saddles, and lingo (la reata became lariat, rancho became ranch, and vaquero became buckaroo. Rodeo means cattle roundup in Spanish.) ......that in South Texas today, Mexican-Americans (Chicanos) continue to own much of the land along the Rio Grande? The Spanish language continues to be an important means of communication as most Anglos working on ranches, including the ranch fore man and owners, speak Spanish with their vaqueros. ......that it was the Spanish-speaking world (governments of Mexico, Spain, and Cuba) who helped free the united Colonies from the British Crown? The American revolution was financed from funds collected from people living in the present states of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. It took thousands of Spanish troops to help win the War of Independence. DID YOU KNOW .... ......that the English language has adopted many Spanish words which are used side by side in everyday conversation such as: adios, adobe, amigo, burro, cafeteria, cantina, canyon, casa, chili, cigar, coca cola, contra, coyote, gringo, desperado, guerilla, hacienda, hombre, junta, lasso, loco, macho, maize, marijuana, mesquite, padre, peon, pinto, plaza, poncho, rancho, rio, rodeo, savvy, sombrero, tomato, tonto, vista, villas, and Yanqui? There's a Mexican dicho (saying) that goes, "Ay Jalisco, no te rajes!" which basically means "Don't give up, keep on going!" This along with our wealth of Aztec Wisdom and practical ingenuity, has become the energy behind the Latino Population. ......that the symbol "$" which we use to refer to the U.S. dollar was taken directly from the pillars of the Spanish imperial coat of arms with the motto "PLUS ULTRA?" In 1775, the Continental Congress, in a proposal by Thomas Jefferson, adopted the "Spanish Dollar" as the basic monetary unit. ......that the city of Galveston, Texas is named after Bernardo de Galvez, the Spanish governor of Louisiana, who commanded Spanish troops during and in support of the American Revolution? ......that paraffin which is distilled from petroleum was discovered in Mexico? Paraffin is used today for the manufacturing of candles, sealing preserving jars, waterproofing paper, (milk cartons and frozen food containers), cosmetics (lip sticks and ointments), and for electrical insulation. ......that the Mexican Air Force under the command of Pancho Villa, were the first to use the air for the destruction of enemy sites? Up to this time, the United States Air Force was using the air strictly for reconnaissance. ......that in 1773, Agustin de Rotea, a Mexican, invented a calculus of probability which was used to establish the Mexican Lottery. It was later adopted by all the Raffles/Lotteries in the world. ......that Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders began as the Otero Guards, men who guarded Governor Otero from New Mexico? ......that Squadron Doscientos Uno (201), Mexican Pilots, fought for the United States in World War II out of the Philippines in 1944-45? ......that Chicanos and Latinos have been decorated more and have a longer contributory military record than any ethnic or racial group in the United States? ......that Pedro Sanchez, engineer and director for the Pan American Geography and History Institute of Mexico, presented a system by which one can detect seism and erosions of the earth. ......that Guillermo Camarena, a Mexican, invented color television? ......that Pedro Paulet, a Peruvian, was the inventor of the first liquid propellant rocket? And Juan de la Cierva, a Spaniard, invented the Helicopter? ......that Dr. Sergio Gutierrez, a Mexican, invented contact lenses for newborns to prevent amblyopic (lazy eye)? The AMA did not approve the invention for another 10 years. ......that Brigadier General Roberto Cardenas, a Mexican, was the test pilot for Northrop who flew the first transcontinental jet? He was also the bomber pilot who dropped Chuck Yeager's plane when Yeager broke the sound barrier. DID YOU KNOW .... ......that as the people of Mexico crossed the new borders into the United States, they felt an innate need to continue their cultural identity? It was during the Chicano Movement of the 1960's that the people of Mexican descent recreated the myth for their homeland called AZTLAN. AZTLAN now represents the souls of the descendents of Mexico in the United States. As the mythical meaning of word/idea/concept evolves, and the determination to preserve one's cultural identity intensifies, its people will enter into a new consciousness. This will be the commitment to reach further into our human potential and embrace the legacy of AZTLAN as our homeland without boundaries. NOW YOU KNOW That despite the gifts of Law, Religion, Architecture, Art, Music, and Theatre, Education, Mathematics, and Science, Agriculture, and Technology, Cuisine and Exploration which the children of the conquest have graciously shared with the world, myths and faulty stereotypes continue to exist. LATINO "NOBEL PRIZE" LAUREATES: · Chemistry: 1995 Professor Mario Molina, Mexican -- (Bio) · Physics: 1968 Dr. Luis W. Alvarez , Spanish-American · Medicine: 1958 Dr. Severo Ochoa, Spanish-American · Literature: 1990 Octavio Paz , Mexican · 1989 Camilo Jose Cela, Spanish · 1982 Gabriel Garcia Marquez , Colombian-Mexican Resident · 1977 Vicente Aleixandre, Spanish · 1971 Pablo Neruda , Chilean · 1969 Miguel Angel Asturias, Guatemalan · 1956 Juan Ramon Jimenez, Spanish-Puerto Rican Resident · 1945 Gabriela Mistral, Chilean · 1922 Jaciento Benavente, Spanish · Peace: 1992 Rigoberta Menchu , Guatemalan · 1987 Oscar Arias Sanchez, Costa Rican · 1982 Alfonso Garcia Robles, Mexican · 1980 Adolpho Perez Esquivel, Argentine · 1936 Carlos de Saavadera Lamas, Argentine For five centuries, foreign observers have commented on the mystique of the new world and all Latin American countries. Mexico is most often singled out as the epitome of the wondrously rich. Pablo Neruda, the Chilean Nobel Laureate, referred to Mexico as "The last magical country," stating that "Every kind of magic is always appearing and reappearing in Mexico." DID YOU KNOW .... Perhaps the mystique of the Americas stems from vast spiritual and holistic knowledge, experience, and respect for family, land, and environment that our indigenous people still revere. Maybe this is the emotional volcano that is fueling the quest for spiritual awareness that some people are seeking. We must never forget that humans are part of the real world. Much has already been lost through the forced conformity of the upper classes. We still do not understand the complex mathematical systems of the Mayas and the sophisticated geometric science of the Aztecs. We must ensure that unique heritages, including languages, and art forms, be part of all conservation efforts. By embracing our indigenous people along with their mysterious past and combining this with present technology, we may be able to understand better our natural resources, conservation, and agricultural systems. Such a combination can be a powerful force for the future of the planet. Today........ after knowing all these things we should concentrate on our most valuable resource: the children. We must educate embrace, nurture, protect, respect, and educate them, for it is they who will reap the rewards of our efforts. Porque............ SABIA USTED QUE, en realidad, los ninos son los que heredan el mundo? Copyright © 1995-96 "LARED LATINA" All Rights Reserved http://www.lared-latina.com/sabe.html http://www.lared-latina.com LaRed Latina of the Intermountain Southwest.
Myths, Legends & Traditional Holidays from Latin America Can be purchased online at saberlatino.com or amazon.com Interactive and animated DVD to learn about the mysterious and magical stories of Latin America . Narrated by Ana and her spunky brother Andrés, the DVD takes children and their parents on a journey of discovery from Patagonia to Mexico, with stops in South America and the Caribbean. Inspired by a school assignment, Ana and Andrés discover some well-known and some not so well-known stories from the Americas, such as: • The Colossuses from Tierra del Fuego - Argentina/Chile •The Myth of the Volcanoes - Mexico •The Guardians of the Treasure - Cuba •Las Ciguapas - Dominican Republic •La Llorona - Various And they find out the significance of holidays such as: •The Day of the Dead - Mexico •The Feast of the Sun - Peru •The Festival of the Flowers - Colombia •The Feast of Saint James The Apostle - Puerto Rico [[Editor: I have not seen this DVD. Comments would be appreciated.]]
Library of Congress Website to use during Hispanic Heritage Month. I found the article on the Spanish cartographer,Diego Gutierrrez from the respected "Casa de la Contratacion" and his Flemish (Dutch) engraver Hieronymus Cock, a noted map engraver from Antwerp. Brings back some great memories of Holland, I was station there for years and met Queen Juliana and her husband from the House of Orange. I was also blessed to celebrate three Thanksgivings in the church where the Pilgrims lived for a long time before coming to America. So many wonderful memories. I really think that the Dutch people are the "Most friendly people in the whole world." If you ever get a chance to go to the Netherlands or Holland as we know it, do it. http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/gmdhtml/gutierrz.html Rafael Ojeda
Latino Astronauts Here is the web site for the Nasa launch schedules. Marine Colonel George Zamka, (I think that he is Columbian) He hails from my Home State Michigan. He will be the pilot on STS 120 on October 20. I like to quote Mr. Guillen formerly with MALDEF, If you ask our children to name a Latino scientist, andthey cannot name one, then they don't exist for them. Here are some Latin Astronauts and scientist, educators and Military men and women that they can follow up. NASA has a great program, where our children can email their questions to these Latino astronauts and follow their careers. http://www.nasa.gov/missions/highlights/schedule.htm NASA release with the new candidates. You can read their personal Bios. Remember that you can also get this page in Spanish. http://oeop.larc.nasa.gov/hep/hep-astronauts.html Remember, you can invite an Astronauts to visit your schools, there is a fee for this. It would be great to invite them to your schools during Hispanic Heritage Month. You can also follow each Space Launch to see who the crews will be. Rafael Ojeda RSNOJEDA@AOL.COM l

	Dear Friends: After 12 printings of the first edition of my book "Youth, Identity, Power: The Chicano Movement", I decided to do a 2nd edition to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 1968 East L.A. Walkouts that sparked the emergence of the Chicano Civil Rights Movement. The 2nd edition is now out. I am pleased to report that Malaquias Montoya, noted Chicano artist, did the art work. Peace, Carlos . . . . Dr. Carlos Muñoz, Jr. Professor Emeritus Department of Ethnic Studies 510-642-9134 http://ethnicstudies.berkeley.edu/faculty/munoz
AT&T AND LEAGUE OF UNITED LATIN AMERICAN CITIZENS EMPOWER LOW-INCOME HISPANIC COMMUNITIES WITH TECHNOLOGY
$1.5 Million AT&T Access All Grant Funds Technology Centers Nationwide; The Grant Builds On Nation's Largest-Ever Program to Provide In-Home Technology Access SAN ANTONIO, April 17, 2007 -- The AT&T Foundation -- the philanthropic arm of AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) -- and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) today unveiled 32 locations that will house new community technology centers in low-income Hispanic communities through LULAC's Empower Hispanic America with Technology initiative. The centers, which are planned to be operational by the end of May, are being supported by a $1.5 million grant that builds upon the success of the AT&T Foundation's $1 million grant to LULAC in 2004. "In addition to creating 32 new technology centers, the funds will also enable us to maintain 23 current locations established under the previous grant," said LULAC National President Rosa Rosales. "More than 55,000 Latinos received access and instruction on computer technology through AT&T's support in 2004, and we expect this new grant to more than double the number of people we can help." The grant to LULAC is a part of AT&T AccessAll, a three-year $100 million philanthropic initiative to provide technology access to underserved communities. It will provide each new facility with computer equipment, personnel support, high-speed Internet service and videoconferencing. Eight of the new centers will be housed in LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC), and 24 will be implemented at non-LNESC locations. Centers created by the 2006 AT&T Foundation grant are:
Phoenix, Ariz. Russellville, Ark. Los Angeles, Calif. Pomona, Calif. Colorado Springs, Colo. Pueblo, Colo. Hartford, Conn. (2) Miami, Fla. Orlando, Fla. Waterloo, Iowa Chicago, Ill. (2) Boston, Mass. Lincoln, Neb. Newark, N.J.	Albuquerque, N.M. (2) Santa Fe, N.M. New York City, N.Y. Youngstown, Ohio Columbus, Ohio Allentown, Pa. Philadelphia, Pa. Abilene, Texas El Paso, Texas Laredo, Texas Salt Lake City, Utah Alexandria, Va. Washington, D.C. (2) Waukesha, Wis.
Clients served by the community technology centers are low-income and/or first-generation Hispanic-American youth and adults. While a higher percentage of Hispanics are employed compared with any other ethnic group (64 percent employment rate versus 63 percent for the next highest, Current Population Survey, April 2006), Hispanics are far more likely than the average American to be among the working poor. In addition, according to a new study by Pew Hispanic Center, 53 percent of Hispanics who are not online say this is because they do not have access. Empower Hispanic America with Technology is aimed at combating these inequities by giving Hispanics the necessary skills, and access, to compete in today's technology-driven workplaces. "In today's digital world, the impact of connecting underserved communities with technology resources is immeasurable as we look at economic mobility," said Sonya Medina, director of the AT&T Foundation. "Our support for the Empower Hispanic America with Technology initiative reflects AT&T's commitment to strengthening education and community development opportunities through technology." The LULAC-affiliated centers provide access to and instruction on modern computer technology in addition to assistance with résumés, college application preparation, GED preparation, financial aid research, and online citizenship services and job-search programs. Program participants use high-speed Internet access, computer equipment and basic office applications software to develop job skills, research career options, educational opportunities and other resources. AT&T's signature AccessAll initiative is a landmark three-year $100 million philanthropic initiative that connects families and communities with technology tools that can improve lives. The program will provide technology access, tools and training to low-income families, underserved communities and the organizations that work to strengthen communities. AT&T and the AT&T Foundation support efforts that enrich and strengthen diverse communities nationwide, particularly initiatives with an emphasis on education and technology and those that benefit underserved populations. Since 1996, the AT&T Foundation has contributed more than $40 million in grants to organizations serving Hispanic communities across the country. For more information, contact: Lauren Tischler ltischle@attnews.us or Lizette Jenness Olmos ljolmos@lulac.org Office: (314) 982-0285 Office: (202) 833-6130, ext. 16
"Latino Manifesto: Critique of Race Debate in U.S. Latino Community" Cimarron Publishers has finally come out with the second printing of it ground-breaking book "Latino Manifesto: A Critique of the Race Debate in the U.S. Latino Community" written by Mr. Christopher Rodriguez. Originally published in 1998, the Latino Manifesto is a community call to a higher level of race consciousness to truly understand the course of current events such as amnesty for illegal immigrants in the Unites States. Many of the issues discussed in the book are even more relevant today as Latinos are witnessing the rising tide of xenophobia and racially charged debates about amnesty for illegal immigrants already in the country. Mr. Rodriguez contends that Latinos will become the political scapegoat and ultimate losers in the debates on Capitol Hill to wrestle with this complicated problem. Mr. Rodriguez cites two serious problems in the course of this debate. First, we cannot ignore the underlying fear of many whites of being genetically wiped and overrun by the presence of 11 million illegal immigrants in this country. Secondly, the perception that African Americans are losing job opportunities to foreign labor renders Latinos a political liability to both blacks and whites in this country. Paradoxically, Latinos who have been in the United States for hundreds of years are now forced to publicly prove their cultural and political allegiances in the media to conservative pundits who are fanning the flame of anti-immigrant sentiments on this divisive issue. The book forces Latinos to look inward and examine its own myths of racial harmony in Latin America by revisiting the history of the Spanish and Portuguese conquest in the Americas and the process of "Hispanization" of people African and Indigenous descent who make up the majority in Latin America. Mr. Rodriguez asserts that this process gave birth to the ideology of White Supremacy that governed European domination of the Americas. Mr. Rodriguez challenges Latinos to re-visit their own history so they can understand the course of future events to come as this debate on illegal immigration intensifies. Mr. Rodriguez makes the link between how Latinos will become victims of current events if they do not grasp the truth of how the ideology of White Supremacy and European domination impacted its own historical, cultural, and psychological development. Only through race consciousness can we develop the analytical tools to survive the current environment of xenophobia and racism within the U.S. This book is a must read for those who are politically concerned about the future of racial and ethnic politics in this country. Mr. Christopher Rodriguez is a frequent lecturer, author and professional trainer on issues related to diversity and Equal Opportunity. Mr. Rodriguez is available for interviews and lectures to discuss the book. For further information please visit his website on www.Latinomanifesto.com or write Latino.Manifesto@yahoo.com News Release from Cimarron Publishers P.O. Box 6539 Columbia, MD 21045 410-312-0572 www.Latinomanifesto.com Latino.Manifesto@yahoo.com
College Cost Reduction Act of 2007 (H.R. 2669) Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Hilda L. Solis (CA-32) today voted to approve the College Cost Reduction Act of 2007 (H.R. 2669), which the House passed by a vote of 273-149. This is the first time since 1944, with the G.I. Bill, has Congress taken such a proactive step in ensuring that millions of Americans can attend higher education institutes. This legislation would boost college financial aid by approximately $18 billion over the next five years. "It is time to start providing our students with the aid needed to keep America competitive by strengthening the middle class and increasing diversity on our campuses," said Congresswoman Solis. "For students in Los Angeles, this is real dollars in the pockets of those who need it the most. This bill will offer students of color, including Latinos and low income families, the financial security to pursue their dreams." The College Cost Reduction Act of 2007 will increase the Pell Grant by $500, benefiting 646,000 students in California. In addition, 6.8 million students nationwide who take out need-based federal student loans would see the interest rates cut in half, providing California alone with more than $1.4 billion more in loan and Pell aid. H.R. 2669 not only puts and keeps students in college - it strengthens our communities by providing financial assistance to people entering public service careers, like nurses, police, firefighters, first responders, and teachers. "Financial assistance was critical to my ability to obtain a higher education, and I am proud that this bill will help students of color and low-income students the financial security to pursue their dreams," Congresswoman Solis added. The College Cost Reduction Act will help support those institutions helping students of color by guaranteeing $500 million over five years for Hispanic-Serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Tribal-Colleges. The College Cost Reduction Act includes a number of other provisions that would ease the financial burden imposed on students and families by the cost of college, including: o Tuition assistance for excellent undergraduate students who agree to teach in the nation's public schools; o Loan forgiveness for college graduates that go into public service professions; o Increased federal loan limits so that students won't have to rely as heavily on costlier private loans; and o New tuition cost containment strategies. President Franklin Roosevelt signed the GI Bill into law in 1944. The original law enabled 7.8 million veterans of World War II to participate in education or job training programs. The Senate is expected to vote on similar legislation this month. A broad coalition of student advocacy groups and labor organizations support the College Cost Reduction Act. For Immediate Release July 11, 2007 Contact: Sonia Melendez (202) 225-5464; (202) 225-4573
SELECTED WRITINGS ON CHICANO PARK DAY 2007 BY FRESHMEN WOMEN AT UC SAN DIEGO Written for a seminar on Cesar E. Chavez by Prof. Jorge Mariscal Sent by Dorinda Moreno
Ashley Adame Jorge Mariscal Freshman Seminar: Life & Times of Cesar Chavez 8May2007 Event 2: Chicano Park Day Chicano Park has now been in existence for 37 years and this year the community gathered once again to celebrate the history of Chicano Park and to focus on the international issue of immigration which affects both Americans and Mexicans alike in their annual "Chicano Park Day." The park was filled with a diversity of people from various race and ethnic backgrounds. There was something for everyone to enjoy: plenty of food, music, dancing, information and shopping booths, etc. In the same way, there was something for people of all ages to take part in whether it was enjoying the playground, watching bands perform or admiring the classic cars lined up in the park. Having never been to Chicano Park it was great to see all of the murals. The festival itself reminded me of the various festivals held on the east side in Riverside where my family still lives and it definitely felt like a home away from home. In such a conservative city as San Diego it was great to see everyone enjoying the culture and heritage of a people that are only 20 miles away yet sometimes feel like worlds away- especially living in La Jolla. It's obvious that the park is a great unifier within the community and it was terrific to see that people didn't let the police and minutemen's presence take away from the essence of the celebration. The theme was especially important and powerful given our proximity to the border and it's important for each member of our Chicano culture to be aware of the realities of our country's policies and how they affect our fellow man. Diana Nieto J. Mariscal 07 May 2007 Chicano Park Crafts, political booths, music, and the smell of food surrounded Barrio Logan's Chicano Park that Saturday. This day was a celebration of a community's demand to not only have a place of their own, but also make it into a public space where visitors could notice the culture and concepts that were behind it. Its location is underneath a number of bridges and freeways. Aside from the trees, these concrete structures provided shade for the visitors observing and in awe of the several low riders that were present at the event. Every color was present from yellow to black to pink. Just like the cars, the booths that had crafts had their Calaveras y Diablitos supply, Frida Kahlo replications and clothing with Chican@ messages embroidered unto them. All of these different items had a similarity, they all were resembling the uplifting, colorful, and warm ambience one felt, even with the small amount of demonstrators representing the Minutemen Project. Although I was born in the county of San Diego, I was never exposed to Barrio Logan, and so I was one of the visitors that had the smile of a kid that is at Disneyland for the first time, this was my Disneyland. Chicano Park Day felt that it was welcoming to all, and I think that is because it stands for the struggles many endure because they are not what is thought of as "American." But this location through its graffiti covered walls that one can spend hours admiring and history shows that there is hope. It is an example of a community that succeeded in getting what they fought for. This event was also an example of Mexican-American. This could have been a block party, where the apple pie was tamales or tacos. It brought together a community that is aware that is large but events such as this show how powerful they are. A majority, if not all felt proud to be Latino, Mexican-American, Chican@, Hispanic, Black, White, Asian, Middle-Eastern, and every other label that has been created because underneath that is a lifestyle and Chicano Park had many of the Latino Culture displayed. There was something for everyone, but their interest/pride in the culture connected them as the community was when they demanded for Chicano Park. Gonzalez 1 Alejandra Gonzalez Freshman Seminar Jorge Mariscal 8 May 2007 Celebrating 37 years of Chicano Park On Saturday April 21, 2007 the thirty-seventh annual celebration of Chicano Park took place in Barrio Logan in San Diego. Upon arriving at the park it was evident it was a festive event; their where stands all around the park, each representing their own organizations; others, where commercial stands where food, and Chicana /0 items where sold. At a first glance all the commotion was over whelming, but never the less welcoming. I immediately felt myself gravitate towards the gazebo in the center of the park, to hear what was occurring. A man was reciting a poem in which I recall reference to undocumented workers, students, nature, family, and Chicano/a pride. The experience was an unforgettable one, where a common culture, belief, tradition, and political associations brought a people together. The overall experience was gratifying, women, children, men, families, all seemed to belong. In the midst of the organized chaos I understood the purpose of the Celebration; it was to let others know that we had issues that needed to be addressed. It was to remind this country that we share a common history, not a separate one which deserves only a page or two in history text books. Yes, there were minute men at the event; however they too served a purpose; they were there to challenge our ideas and in doing so only made them stronger. I feel this event showed me a side of San Diego I was not familiar with, a place where Chicano culture is not worst nor better, just embraced, and a place where you can actually enjoy a real taco. I truly enjoyed the Chicano Park Celebration and look forward to forming part of it again next year.	Marissa Dominguez Cesar Chavez Seminar May 6, 2007 Chicano Park Another event that I attended was Chicano Park day. I went with my school because they were providing free transportation and lunch. The only bad thing about this was that it was only for about 2 hours. Itwas my first time going to Chicano park, and I was pretty impressed by some of the murals there. They had a couple of different speakers. Right after we arrived there was an Aztec dance performance. Their costumes looked pretty complex and so did their dance. After that there were other dance performances, but we did not get to see them as we were checking out other parts of the park. They were showing off low rider cars and also bikes. There were also a lot of vendors selling t-shirts and other stuff that you might find in a Mexican Mercado, as well as food. There were also booths offering information on Latino issues, including schools like UCSD. I saw many other students there from UCSD, many from MEChA. I think this was my favorite event that I attended. Even though there the minute men were across the street they did not prevent us from having this celebration and having a good time. Chicano Park is such an important part of San Diego given that so many Latinos live here and it makes us feel like we have our own space. I was expecting to see a lot more people attend, but there was still a pretty big crowd. Yvette Martinez Cesar Chavez Seminar ChicanoPark Family, harmony, happiness and culture were what I experienced the day I went to Chicano Park. It was such a wonderful experience to be present in such a day where so many people congregate peacefully and culturally. Since I am a first year student, it is very difficult for me to get acquainted with school and San Diego in general, I get home sick very often and I miss my family, but going to Chicano Park that day I experienced warmth and a sort of coziness, something that made me feel good and at home. I loved the feeling of belonging and seeing everyone happy and enjoying a great day with family. That day was my first time visiting Chicano Park and I have to admit it was a wonderful place. The murals were my favorite I love art and seeing that type of art just moved me, it was beautiful. Chicano art is very inspirational and I want to return to Chicano Park so I can finish taking pictures of all the different murals. I really think is great having a place like that in the community simply because it is a great place for family gatherings and for meeting new people. I also have to say that the low riders were great those cars were so awesome. I am also a big fan of cars and seeing all the types of cars they had and all the different styles was just amazing. I also thought it was amazing how many people gathered for the event, so many little kids, the food was great and the dance performances were terrific. The fact that the minutemen were there protesting was pretty hilarious and annoying but it was nice to see that people were trying to ignore them and just enjoy the rest of their day with their family. I am definitely looking forward in visiting Chicano Park again. I cannot wait to take my family and friends to Chicano Park, I want to be able to share this special place with them and I hope they feel the same way about it as I do. Mari Ramirez LTAM87 April 26, 2007 American Pie: What's under the crust/ Chicano Park Day On Saturday April 21, 2006, I went on a trip with UCSD to the Mexican border to discuss the issues about illegal immigration. We went to San Ysidro and we were given a speech about all the issues about it and also how these people get help, when they feel that officers of the Border Patrol have mistreated them. We where told about incidents that have occurred here in San Diego, especially in the San Ysidro area. How U.S. law enforcers go into people's homes, when they have reason to believe that illegal immigrants reside in that home. But how these people not knowing their rights, such as the law that prohibits police officers to enter your home without a legal warrant, they get taken into custody and deported back to Mexico. A story that I thought was really sad was about a family whose home was raided by officers, both the parents were residing in the U.S. illegally, but they had been living in San Ysidro for 18 years were deported back to Mexico. They had 3 children, ages 16, 13, and 8. These children are right now going through really hard times, the oldest one is going through having to figure out how to pay for the mortgage of their home, the bills, and how to support her siblings. The younger ones are having a really hard time because they weren't harmed physically but mentally, having to see how their parents were taken away really had an impact on them. For me this story really touched my heart because I would not want to be in their place, I don't think anybody would, and the parents, they have been here in the U.S. for 18 years doesn't that mean anything to the federal government. Or maybe the fact that these 3 children's are all U.S. citizens doesn't that count for anything. After hearing all these cases and facts about illegal immigrants we where taken closer to the border, and it was further explained to us how border patrols mistreat the immigrants. Many case where brought to our attention of how the agents killed the immigrants because they felt threatened by them. In some case the agents would argue that they shot the illegal immigrants because they saw them leaned down to grab a rock, so they felt the need to defend themselves by shooting at them. One case in particular caught my attention, because the officials from Mexico and U.S. Police officers realized that a border patrol agent lied about killing an immigrant. The agent had said that he shot the man because he bent down to get a rock, but the area through which the immigrant was trying to come to the U.S. there are only pebbles, and not big rocks. Also the illegal had been shot in the back when he was trying to go back to Mexico. This is one of many cases that have happened, but this one is one of the few where it was actually proven that the Border patrol agent was lying and that he killed the illegal immigrant because he just didn't like him. We where then taken to Chicano Park, I thought that it was really nice, and it felt like home. It felt like home because I am from the Imperial Valley, and my community is composed of a majority of Mexicans. So just being there and seeing all these Mexican people appreciate where they come from really made me happy. I have always felt that we must never forget where our roots lie at, yes im grateful for the opportunities that have been granted to me by being a U.S. citizen, but I am also grateful for being who I am. Chicano park showed me that being Mexican is important to these people.
Denise Manjarrez Mariscal-LTAM 87 6 May 6,2007 Reflection on: American Pie/ Chicano Park The day began the organizers giving us packets of information about the immigration history of the United States in order to give us an idea of the context of the issue at hand. Our first stop was at a local park right next to the border and housing projects. There, an activist talked to us about some of the important issues around immigration into the U.S. and he talked about the current issues regarding the border and today's immigration policy. The man was part of an organization which helped individuals who have suffered mistreatment by border patrol, governmental officials, etc. Then our next stop was at a local territory where we were aligned to the border and where we could witness border patrol in action. There, the activist talked about the reasons why people immigrate and he also explained the interaction between unauthorized immigrants and the border patrol. Next we were on our way to Chicano Park. In Chicano Park we took a brief tour of the park and observed the car shows, vendors, entertainment. As we roamed around the park, we witness the variety of Chicanos and non-Chicanos that showed up. One thing to remember was the presence of the Minute Men as they protested the day's activities. Then as we ate and saw Dance Azteca's performance we were saddened to leave. Our next stop however, was Casa Familiar, a non-profit organization in San Ysidro. This center is a community and recreation center. Once we got there we performed community service. Because of their low number of staff, the center had many problems and was very much underdeveloped. Once we were done with our community service we went to dinner and discussed our experiences of the day. This day was truly wonderful and it opened my eyes to many things. First, it made me see that immigration is a real thing and people do actually cross the border. Since I've always seen the images on TV or read it on the newspaper, immigration has always been this abstract concept that I heard about through my family and others; however, seeing the border was very powerful. No longer was I crossing the border in my car but I was imagining what it must have felt to jump the border and hide from the border patrol. The second thing that impacted me the most was our trip to Chicano Park. Living in La Jolla has been a very different experience and I missed the Chicano/ Latino culture. It was very exciting to see people speaking Spanish and families having fun. The food was delicious, the entertainment was amazing and the people were extremely nice. The fact that the minute men were there did not ruin the environment one bit. It was disappointing that there are people who allow them- selves to be driven by false stereotypes and hatred. In the end we worked in Casa Familiar. Our task was simple: we were to organize donated clothes and take inventory of them. But while we working, I couldn't help but imagine all the people who would need the very clothes we were folding but I also thought of all those people who would not be able to take advantage of this center. This one center can not possibly care for all the immigrants out there who are homeless, in need of jobs and other countless necessities. The trip made me realize that an immigrant's journey does not end once he reaches the U.S. but it is the only beginning. Once they get here, immigrants must prove capable to survive in a country where they have limited resources.
Obituary: CSUS professor, artist Favela promoted Latino pride By Robert D. Dávila - Bee Staff Writer, July 20, 2007 Ricardo Favela, a Sacramento artist, social activist and founding member of the influential Royal Chicano Air Force art group, died Sunday. He was 62. He died of a heart attack while traveling in Dinuba, according to a news statement released Thursday by California State University, Sacramento, where he was an associate professor of art. Mr. Favela was studying art at CSUS when he banded with several other students in 1969 to form the Rebel Chicano Art Front. When outsiders confused the initials for the Royal Canadian Air Force, members playfully renamed themselves the Royal Chicano Air Force. The RCAF won renown for its bold mural paintings and iconic poster art celebrating Chicano culture, history and struggles for civil rights. Artists also used their talents for social activism, including supporting the United Farm Workers, increasing Latino political awareness and promoting pride in Chicano roots. "The problem we're having now with a lot of people is that they don't want to be reminded of where they came from," Mr. Favela, a son of impoverished farm- workers, told The Bee in a 1992 story about the RCAF. "We are not ashamed, because we have done research and know that we came from a very rich culture," he said. "The Chicano movement gave me a sense of belonging, a sense of direction and a real deep sense of pride." Mr. Favela, who specialized in a form of silk-screening known as serigraphy, blended art and social activism at CSUS. He taught the Barrio Arts Program, which sends students into urban neighborhoods to teach arts and crafts at schools and senior centers. He also collaborated on the design of "Symbiosis," a campus fountain honoring his friends, the late Sacramento Mayor Joe Serna and his wife, Isabel Hernandez-Serna, who both also taught at CSUS. He used art to inspire young people, colleagues said. His first jobs were teaching juvenile offenders and adult convicts with the California Youth Authority and the California Department of Corrections. He joined the full-time faculty at CSUS in 1997. Although proud of his Latino heritage, he was a humble man who enjoyed a special connection with students, CSUS art department Chairwoman Catherine Turrill said. "He was a tremendous mentor outside the classroom, not just a teacher," she said. "There were always students in his office. It was quite a center of activity." Ricardo Favela was born in 1945 to Mexican immigrants in the rural Fresno County town of Kingsburg. He grew up in Dinuba, in Tulare County. He earned an associate degree from the College of the Sequoias in Visalia before moving to study studio art at CSUS. He earned a bachelor's degree in 1971 and master's degree in 1989. "You would never have guessed he was a university professor because he was very proud of coming from a working-class family," Turrill said. Sent by Dorinda Moreno
Harvard does something to you: It opens the door to the world By Elizabeth Gehrman Page # 8 La Voz de Austin - July, 2007 When Raul Ruiz was a teenager, some of his teachers realized he had potential. But most, he says, recommended he apply to a vocational school; it would be a big step toward the American dream for a first-generation Mexican-American boy whose migrant-worker parents had never finished high school. Even the few teachers who did see Ruiz’s potential could never have dreamed how far it would take him. Today he holds an M.D. from Harvard Medical School, an M.P.P. from the Kennedy School of Government, and an M.P.H from the Harvard School of Public Health. He is believed to be the first Latino to earn three graduate degrees from the University. “There was a 50 percent dropout rate in my high school,” Ruiz says, “and issues with gangs and violence. But my parents instilled the idea that everything is an opportunity. Even when people discouraged me, it was an opportunity to work hard and prove them wrong. I had a very strong sense of rebellion when anyone told me I couldn’t achieve my dreams. Failures were considered opportunities to succeed. That’s how I managed to graduate from high school and then go on to UCLA.” Ruiz’s mother, he says, was his role model. “She was the community go-to person,” he recalls. “She would help our neighbors when they didn’t understand the system, she’d orient new immigrants, and she’d give people traditional natural medicines.” Because of her example and his experience growing up in a community of migrant farm workers, he developed a strong sense of social justice, and knew by age 4 that he wanted to be a doctor. Still, when a professor at the University of California, where Ruiz earned a magna cum laude undergraduate degree in physiological sciences with a concentration in Chicana/Chicano studies, suggested Harvard, “I said, ‘Where is that and what is that?’” Once at the University, he continues, “I thought I would go back to my hometown and become a community doctor while working to diminish inequality. But Harvard does something strange to you. It opens the door to the world, and makes you think as a global leader.” Ruiz should have no problem on that score, according to Stephanie Rosborough, director of the International Emergency Medicine Fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where Ruiz is currently a fellow and an emergency medicine physician. “Raul has the ability to develop a vision and a perspective on things that is quite unusual in a person with his level of training,” she says. “He’s remarkably driven and directed, with an amazing persistence. It’s almost like setbacks mean nothing to him. I think he’s going to be a superstar. There’s no way he can not be.” Ruiz says his educational trifecta will give him a broad skill set that will allow him to “be versatile and effective in serving vulnerable populations such as the poor and civilian victims of war and terrorism by finding innovative solutions to difficult policy problems.” His first job after graduation will be as a physician in the emergency department at Eisenhower Medical Center, a nonprofit community hospital in California’s Coachella Valley, where he grew up. From there he plans to continue his work on humanitarian projects and policy with the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative, including emergency and disaster medicine development for the governments of El Salvador and Serbia. He’ll also study, in conjunction with Harvard’s Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research, the interface of national security and public health as well as security preparedness for international humanitarian aid organizations. Something of a tall order, but Ruiz shrugs off the political challenges inherent in such projects. “I guess that’s where the dreamers have to step up,” he says, adding after a pause, “Yes, I do think everything is possible.” Reprinted from the Harvard News Office


Hi, Lico R here. I am a comedian who has opened for many BIG acts like, Paul Rodriguez, Mammas & Papas, Janie Frickie, Mil Mascaras etc. I have also worked along with the Michael Jackson Victory Tour and Julio Iglesias in Dallas. (See www.Lico.TV) Now I do casino and corporate comedy. BUT I AM ALSO in Civil Rights at the local, district and national level for LULAC (League Of Latin American Citizens. I was named LULAC National Civil Rights Man of the Year and Texas Man of the Year both in 2002. I am also a good friend of Little Joe y La Familia, for real. He is a GREAT GUY! FYI we just got back from the Texas LULAC convention and this is one of our key issues at both the state and national level. I took the opportunity to show our local Civil Rights Chair, Andrea Elliott, and our District 21 Civil Rights Committee the proximity of El Paso to Juarez, Mexico. About a stone's throw across a small dry water channel (canal). With a partition in the fence the size of a normal yard gate. I also took Andrea to the mountain mud, cardboard, sheet metal and wood frame homes where the poorest of Juarez live. And the "blue" police patrol with heavy weapons and armored vests. We actually spoke to both border patrol agents in El Paso and those police in Juarez on the mountains.

Obituary: Antonio Aguilar By Agustin Gurza, Times Staff Writer June 21, 2007 Mexican singer and actor Antonio Aguilar, who delighted international audiences for years with wholesome musical rodeo shows that earned him a reputation as the Roy Rogers of Mexico, has died. He was 88. Aguilar had endured a protracted battle with pneumonia before he died late Tuesday at a Mexico City hospital, according to the Associated Press. A viewing and memorial Mass were held Wednesday at the capital's historic Basilica de Guadalupe, where dignitaries, celebrities and fans gathered to pay last respects to an artist considered one of the country's leading cultural ambassadors. Mexican President Felipe Calderón called Aguilar's death a great loss and expressed hope that his "legacy would continue being a seed for a better Mexico." "It wasn't his singing or his voice that made him so memorable to us," said Nati Cano, director of Los Angeles' Mariachi Los Camperos, who backed Aguilar during shows at downtown's Million Dollar Theater in the 1960s. "It was his character, the way he treated musicians and interacted with an audience, as if he were related to each one of them." In a career that spanned six decades, Aguilar made more than 160 records and more than 100 films, often starring as a fearless champion of the poor in dramas with revolutionary themes. In his personal life, he nurtured an image as a devoted family man, married for more than 45 years to his wife, singer Flor Silvestre, and shepherding his two boys, Antonio and Pepe, into show business at an early age and leaving a legacy through Pepe Aguilar, now a successful recording star in his own right. In Los Angeles, Aguilar built an enormous following starting in the 1950s, first as a solo singer and then with his thrilling rodeos, which began in the '60s. On Wednesday, Aguilar was remembered as one of the first Mexican artists to develop a fan base among Mexican immigrants in the United States and to engage non-Latino audiences here as well. USC journalism professor Félix Gutiérrez recalled a chance airport encounter with Aguilar in the early 1970s. Gutierrez was a graduate student at Stanford University when he spotted Aguilar arriving with his wife on a commuter plane in San Jose, totally unnoticed by the general public and carrying their own bags. The only ones who recognized the famous couple were custodians and other Latino laborers who were as thrilled to spot their beloved stars as others might be to see Bob Hope. "That helped me realize there was a [cultural] gap," said Gutierrez, who teaches at the Annenberg School for Communication. "Aguilar helped build a musical bridge between Mexico and the U.S. He was a breakthrough in terms of creating a following north of the border." Pascual Antonio Aguilar Barraza was born May 17, 1919, in Villanueva in the state of Zacatecas. As a boy, he entered the seminary to become a priest and instead cultivated his vocal talents in the choir. With the goal of becoming a classical singer, he got a scholarship to study music in Los Angeles in the early 1940s, but he was deported and started working in Tijuana, earning $12 a week. By 1945, he moved to Mexico City with a Lincoln convertible and cash in the bank, soon buying a nightclub, the Minuit, that came to attract cross-border celebrities including Gary Cooper and Pedro Infante. Though he first started singing romantic boleros, Aguilar changed his tuxedo for a charro outfit and found popular acceptance singing rancheras and corridos, the narrative genre that spins tales of adventurers and revolutionaries, such as Heraclio Bernal and Emiliano Zapata, whom he later portrayed on the silver screen. Aguilar started his film career alongside mariachi icon Infante, in 1952's "Un Rincón Cerca del Cielo" (A Corner Close to Heaven), the first of a string of movies that spanned half a century. In the 1960s, he expanded into producing and screenwriting, though not always with stellar results. He produced, co-wrote and played the leading role in 1970's "Emiliano Zapata," an overly grave characterization that steered him away from his popular comedic musicals. In the United States, Aguilar is perhaps best remembered for his role as General Rojas in the English-language western "The Undefeated" (1969), which co-starred John Wayne and Rock Hudson. Jose Hernandez, director of the Mariachi Sol de Mexico, recalled working with Aguilar as a teenager during shows in Los Angeles. The young apprentice annotated the old unwritten corridos, writing notes as Aguilar hummed the musical introductions. "He was an incredible man, very special," Hernandez said Wednesday from his Cielito Lindo Restaurant in South El Monte. "And he was so respectful of this country. He would tell all his crew, and all his musicians, 'We're going to the U.S. so we must be on our best behavior. We want the Americans to see what the true Mexico is all about, and that our culture is beautiful.' " Aguilar expressed that goal in a 2003 interview with Imagen, his home state's leading newspaper. Aguilar recalled that promoters at first were not interested in booking his Mexican rodeo at venues like Madison Square Garden and the Los Angeles Sports Arena, which he would eventually fill to capacity. "They would tell me that the show had no value for their venues, because there was just no Latin American attraction that could draw enough people," he said. "Still, I wanted to get in. I wanted to show them what we could do, and lift high the name of Mexico." agustin.gurza@latimes.com
For Immediate Release: NATIVE SAINT: THE AMAZING JOURNEY OF JUAN DIEGO A musical production by San Antonio’s Luce Amen NATIVE SAINT: THE AMAZING JOURNEY OF JUAN DIEGO is inspired by the compelling, beautiful story of Our Lady of Guadalupe and written by New York City playwright-composer Luce Amen. After fifteen preview performances for audiences in San Antonio, Dallas, Mexico City, San Diego, and New York City as it heads for full production on Broadway, Amen is bringing a one-time only special benefit performance of the brand new musical to the Elizabeth Huth Coates Theater at The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) on Sunday, August 12, 2007 at 5 p.m. Amen grew up in San Antonio and graduated from Incarnate Word High School. Proceeds will benefit the UIW Zelime Lytle Amen Braun Scholarship Fund, named in honor of Lucy’s mother. This one-of-a-kind ‘boutique performance’ is ninety minutes with a reception following the presentation. Free valet parking is available. The musical presents a rich tapestry of mariachi, contemporary flamenco, rock, pop, and dramatic ballads. Amen feels that NATIVE SAINT: THE AMAZING JOURNEY OF JUAN DIEGO has within it a timeless, uplifting story from yesterday which offers inspiration for meeting the challenges of today. "Performing NATIVE SAINT: THE AMAZING JOURNEY OF JUAN DIEGO in San Antonio is a homecoming gift to her city, its people and her family, as well as an opportunity to honor her mother’s memory in a very special way," she adds. Playwright-composer Amen spent much of her youth in the Alamo City, attending St. Anthony Grade School and Incarnate Word High School. After earning her Bachelor of Music Education degree at The University of Texas in Austin, she taught elementary school music for three years in San Antonio. Amen left Texas to continue her musical studies and achieve a Master’s Degree at the prestigious Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York. She then headed for New York City, which became for her a portal to a career appearing as a songwriter-vocalist-guitarist in the U.S. and abroad. Today, Amen continues to reside in Manhattan but still returns frequently to family and friends in Texas. The hallmark of Amen’s musical compositions and performances has been her ability to capture widely-varied musical styles in her writing and delivery, presenting them with striking authenticity. One of many examples of her meticulous preparation for such performances was on a 96-day cruise, working with the nightclub orchestra on the SS Rotterdam. At ports- of-call, from Rio de Janeiro to Tokyo, Amen, armed with her tape recorder, would corral a native from that country and arrange for that person to teach her a popular song from the locale, especially the pronunciation and colloquial meanings. From her home in New York City, Amen recently commented, "Growing up in San Antonio, the culture of Mexico is a natural part of the environment. It was easy to soak up the warmth and color and the sounds of the Spanish language, and to just naturally experience Mexican music and dance alongside American pop and rock and country music. From Mexican-American friends and teachers in school, to hearing performers and seeing the influence on art and architecture, the richness of Mexico permeated daily life in San Antonio. And paintings and statues of Our Lady of Guadalupe were a part of that. But I never knew the details of this story until I felt compelled to start writing music for it." About twelve years ago, Amen walked into Tower Records in Austin, where her albums were on sale. While she was chatting with the salesman, he handed her a small book on the cover of which was a picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This was his own personal volume which he presented to her and said, "You should write about this." Amen took the book, thanked the salesman, and left, wondering how she would ever be able to return the book to him. She adds, "When I arrived back home in New York the next day, I put the book on a shelf." Some time later, Amen’s two-year-old son pulled the book from the shelf and opened it. She glanced at a few of the pages and felt it was time to read it so she could return it to the man who had given it to her. She read the story and found that it had an unexpected, rather compelling interest for her. She started to take notes and, over the next weeks and months found herself writing songs and developing scenes for the drama. It took five years, three trips to Mexico City, countless hours of research at the computer, and extensive literary searches, to provide the basis for Amen’s adaptation of the story for dramatic presentation. She states, "I was very busy being a performing musician, music teacher, and mom, so I could only work on the project in bits and pieces. Sometimes weeks went by with time for only ten or twenty-minute segments to give to the project, and other times I was able to carve out longer periods, usually late at night. One of the songs, which has turned out to be a favorite of audiences who have seen the show, is called ‘I’ll Always Care for You.’ I wrote that on an early morning flight out of Atlanta, after performing at a gala the night before. I’ve learned to carry music staff paper and pencils with me, because you never know when you might come up with some new lyrics or a melody. Through these past years of working on this, I kept getting signs along the way to continue, even though I often didn’t see how I could carve out the time to do it. This project wouldn’t let me rest until I saw it through to completion." To RSVP and for ticket information: Contact Beth Amen O’Brien at 210-822-2204 or bethobriensa@gmail.com. Media Contact: Jeanne Albrecht (210) 392-9047 jca@satx.rr.com
Fuerza de la Raíz This CD came about as part of a Leadership Workshop with groups from all sectors, base communities, universities, unions, churches. We shared songs with people that would transport them to their own experience of migration, whether they were born in the U.S. or they cam from other parts of America, Europe, Africa, Asia or Australia. The music moves people and they would always ask for the CD. Since we didn't have one, we recorded it, during trip to seattle at St. Mark's Cathedral with a group of friends present. The workshop "Strength from the Roots" is still very effective for strengthening groups. Organizations keep calling us to provide it for their members. But their is great desire for the CD itself and find we can support the work through its sale. cómpralo ahora en/ get it now: www.cdbaby.com/fjherrera Music that brings you back in time, lyrics that move the soul, stories that bring you to your immigrant self and your ability to make change for the common good. You'll simly enjoy it. - www.cdbaby.com/fjherrera you can also check out www.myspace.com/franciscoherrera for more info. Música que te transporta al pasado, letra que conmueve el alma, historias que te trae a tu ser migrante y a la fortaleza que tienes para hacer cambios para el bien común. Simplemente, lo vas a disfrutar. - www.cdbaby.com/fjherrera también pueden ir al: www.myspace.com/franciscoherrera para más información. Maria Christina Perez Trabajo Cultural Caminante

SPECIAL
HispanicVista.com Editorial Opinion
Rebuttal to S. B. Huntington
April 14, 2004

A stinging rebuttal of the claim by a Chairman at a Harvard University Study Center, Samuel B. Huntington, to the effect that American Hispanics pose a threat to the United States. About the author: Sal Osio received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Southern California School of Law. He is a past Director of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, and Vice-Chairman of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation. He taught U.S. Mexico business and financing at UCLA.
He is Chairman of HispanicVista.com. www.hispanicvista.com Sposio@aol.com

[[Considering the PBS and media support of Burns, this seems like a good time to re-read Patrick Osio's 2004 rebuttal to Huntington's position. ]]

The American WASP – A Master Race?

By Sal Osio, JD/HispanicVista.com

Samuel B. Huntington is an academician, the Chairman for the Harvard Academy for International and Area studies. In his recent book "The Hispanic Challenge," a digest of which was published online, he has ignited a maelstrom of dissent and concern. At the core of his essay is his conviction that Hispanics, particularly Mexican-Americans, pose a threat to the United States: "The United States ignores this challenge at its peril."

He concludes that American Hispanics "… no longer think of themselves as members of a small minority who must accommodate the dominant group and adopt its culture." His hypothesis is that the strength of America is grounded by WASP Americans – White Anglo Saxon Protestants. His theory is that WASPS have been able to dominate America by subjugating non-WASPS – Catholics, Jews and, in general, other Americans who do not trace their ancestry to England – thus retaining the American identity. Assimilation by non-WASPS to the dominant culture, ethics and values, which he assumes to be WASP, he claims, is the essence to America's strength and well being. Accordingly, assimilation by adopting the dominant culture preserves "the American dream." He then asserts that Hispanics, primarily by retaining their Spanish language and cultural heritage, have not assimilated and pose the threat to America.

Huntington's thesis is dangerously close to Nazi Germany's philosophy promulgated by Alfred Rosenberg, who rationalized the Nazi credo that Germans were the Aryan race – the "Master Race." The Nazis justified the extermination of Jews, Gypsies and other non-Aryans, an ethnic cleansing political strategy, in order to protect and preserve the purity of the Aryan race. The similarity between theorist Rosenberg and Huntington is daunting. And it has the same ominous potential consequences in the hands of America's White supremacists. The implication is clear: WASPS must rise to the Hispanic challenge. In the alternative, he states, America will be split into two cultures – one English the other Spanish, similar, he says, to the disabling status in Canada with a French and an English speaking and cultural society. And he asserts that America must become/remain monolingual and preserve its dominant WASP culture, identity, ethnicity and values.

To support his WASP supremacist theory, Huntington identifies early Americans as WASP. He suggests that the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, government and institutions are based on "Protestant values of individualism, the work ethic, and the belief that humans have the ability and the duty to try to create a heaven on earth" - the American identity is WASP. To buttress his case he identifies Thomas Jefferson – a known agnostic and free mason – as the Protestant model who authored the American democratic philosophy. He neglects to mention that Jefferson was primarily influenced by and embraced the doctrines of French philosopher Jean-Jack Russeau (1712-78) who is credited with the formulation of liberty, justice and equality for all men, the social contract between government and the governed wherein the people are the source and the beneficiaries of power - the concept of democracy. And it need not be pointed out that the only commonality between Russeau and WASP is the "W."

Huntington makes light of our early hypocrisy, word versus practice, wherein we enslaved the Black minority of Americans and held them in indentured servitude through the last century. And he implies that this non-WASP segment is not a problem because they have assimilated and are a stagnant minority, therefore, not a threat to WASP cultural dominance. He explains that residents from the U.S. annexed territories from Spain (e.g. Florida), France (e.g. Louisiana territories) and Mexico (Southwest) also assimilated and became subservient. He assumes, of course, that immigrants from Europe, Asia and Latin America, including Euro-Americans from France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Poland and other countries, abandoned their heritage and submerged themselves to the WASP dominant culture. Never mind, St. Patrick's Day and the American Irish culture and tradition. In short, he does not conceive that America has evolved from a melting pot of immigrants into a culture and society that uniquely blends cultural values and traditions, which have created a bond that has become the American identity, which has replaced the earlier characterization of the WASP culture, and which now defines 21^st Century America.

Having committed himself to a WASP America, Huntington predictably identifies Hispanics as a non-conforming group, and, therefore, the threat to the United States. They speak Spanish, he says. They multiply. They live in Hispanic populated communities. They have their own media. Their own political agenda. Their own religion. Their own food. Their own organizations. And soon, they will take over the United States and dominate WASP society or create a bifurcated country. OUCH!

Primarily Huntington relies on the premise that Hispanics speak Spanish. He views this as a schism with mainstream WASP America. And he overlooks the fact that Spanish speaking Hispanics are primarily foreign born. He ignores factual data, readily available, such as the McKinsey Quarterly (1998) and a similar study by VNV Spectra in 2003, that only 28% of America’s 40 million Hispanics are Spanish language mono-cultural (the foreign born 1^st generation) and that 59% are acculturated (2^nd generation) and that they become assimilated from the 3^rd generation onward – not unlike other immigrant groups. In 2003 a study by RAND Corporation found that Hispanics climb up the economic ladder in successive generations, similar to other immigration groups: "… counter to the prevailing view that there is something in the system that holds Hispanic immigrants back." The Pew Hispanic Center, National Survey of Latinos, 2002, relying on the 2000 U.S. Census, finds that 78% of 3^rd generation Hispanics are English language dominant and 22% are bilingual, in contrast to 4% and 24%, respectively, of the 1^st generation (foreign born). The study also found "… that native-born Hispanics expressed an overwhelming preference, 71%, f or English language … with another 20% choosing both English and Spanish equally." So much for the assumption that Hispanic immigrants retain their native language ad infinitum.

What either confuses Huntington, or he chooses to ignore, is the difference between acculturation – the preservation of the cultural traits while adopting a complementary set of skills from the mainstream – and assimilation – the replacement of native customs with the mainstream culture. Through the 3^rd generation, Hispanics tend to acculturate and, thereafter, to assimilate. The acculturation phase is readily explainable – the annexation of the Southwest territories from Mexico and their proximity to the Border, and, in South Florida, the Cuban immigration of the 60’s and the proximity to the Hispanic Caribbean.

The Hispanic Challenge – if a challenge or threat at all – is the path of acculturation leading to assimilation – from the 3^rd to the 4^th generation immigrant, and beyond. This process is now accelerated through convergence. According the U.S. Census Bureau (1994) over 26% of 2^nd generation Hispanic women and over 33% of 3^rd generation Hispanic women marry outside their ethnicity. Is there a threat from a group who is following the path of assimilation into the American mainstream, like other immigrant groups did before them, only because they are growing in size or because their ethnicity is not WASP?

If Huntington fails to make a valid claim to his thesis that Hispanics are a threat to the United States, is his revival of the WASP configuration not a political statement? Exclusionary, and a call to arms against an immigrant group? Is it the rationale for a white supremacist movement? Does Huntington have a hidden agenda … to promote the sale of his book through inflammatory propaganda, which will be embraced by white supremacist America and hate groups … a significant readership? Is the affiliation with Harvard coincidental? Or does Harvard University endorse Huntington’s views? Would he have any credence were it not for his affiliation with Harvard University?

The real issue, which is a concern to all of us, particularly to the American Hispanic community, is illegal immigration. Hispanic statesmen have addressed this issue repeatedly on HispanicVista.com commentaries. The consensus is that the solution is simple: Enforce existing sanctions against employers who hire undocumented workers. However, the consequences to the agricultural and service sectors of the U.S. economy would be so catastrophic, without the labor subsidy, that the application of existing law may not be an option. Accordingly, other solutions need to be considered, including the President Bush proposed Guest Worker Program.

Why didn't Huntington address the real issue? After all, the problems on which he based his underlying thesis are essentially related to foreign-born undocumented Hispanics laborers from Mexico and Central America.

It’s obvious that Huntington prefers burgers, fries and catsup to tacos, beans and salsa. But, would he not be well advised, like modifying his thesis, that he change his eating habits after checking out the dietary consequences of his diet preference?

The cultural contribution by Hispanics to our society, much the same as the contributions of other immigrant groups before them, enrich our nation and bestow a distinctive flavor to the American culture. Multiculturalism is an asset, not a threat or liability, that enriches our social experiment and defines our American identity. Dare we imagine an America without the soul of our Black brethren, without the spirit of the Irish, without Italian music, without German sciences, without English literature, without French cuisine, without Japanese electronics, without Indian meditation, without Chinese art ... and without Mexican fiestas, mariachis, margaritas and apetitos?

____________________________

Book: The Mexican Perspective by Patrick Osio has 'translated' much of the Mexican perspective on issues of importance to them and to us. It explains their feelings about their country, and the Mexican psyche that makes up a great deal of their culture - on subjects of religion, family, politics, corruption in their midst, the immigration phenomenon, their feelings towards the US and its people including Mexican-Americans. It candidly analyses the perceptions Americans have towards Mexico and Mexicans …insight on the Mexican thinking about the US's foreign policy and the historical issues between the US, Mexico and Latin America - we call it helping, they call it intervention - we call it Manifest Destiny, they call it imperialism. http://www.hispanicvista.com/sales/book_sale.htm

Equality Texas Mourns the Death of David Ritcheson
18-Year Old Victim Had Testified in April for Passage of Matthew Shepard Act
http://www.equalitytexas.org/http://www.equalitytexas.org

Austin, TX (July 2, 2007) - Equality Texas today mourns the death of David Ritcheson, the 18-year-old Spring, Texas teenager who had survived an April, 2006 brutal hate crime.

On April 22, 2006, Ritcheson was beaten nearly to death by self-professed Skinheads, who cut him, burned him, poured bleach over him, sodomized him with an outdoor umbrella pole and yelled anti-Hispanic slurs.

Last November and December, Ritcheson sat in a courtroom in Harris County, Texas and faced his attackers for the first time as they went through their respective trials. Ritcheson's attackers eventually were convicted of aggravated sexual assault; one was given a life sentence, the other 90 years.

Less than three months ago, on April 17, 2007, David Ritcheson went to Washington, D.C. and testified before the House Judiciary Committee urging passage of the "Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007", also known as the Matthew Shepard Act.

Ritcheson's testimony included: "I appear before you as a survivor of one of the most despicable, shocking, and heinous acts of hate violence this country has seen in decades. Nearly one year ago on April 22, 2006, I was viciously attacked by two individuals because of my heritage as a Mexican-American."

"Weeks later I recall waking up in the hospital with a myriad of emotions, including fear and uncertainty. Most of all, I felt inexplicable humiliation. Not only did I have to face my peers and my family, I had to face the fact that I had been targeted for violence in a brutal crime because of my ethnicity. This crime took place in middle-class America in the year 2006. The reality that hate is alive, strong, and thriving in the cities, towns, and cul-de-sacs of Suburbia, America was a surprise to me."

"However, despite the obvious bias motivation of the crime, it is very frustrating to me that neither the state of Texas nor the federal government was able to utilize hate crime laws on the books today in the prosecution of my attackers. I am upset that neither the Justice Department nor the FBI was able to assist or get involved in the investigation of my case because 'the crime did not fit the existing hate crimes laws'. Today I urge you to take the lead in this time of needed change and approve the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007."

"I am here before you today asking that our government take the lead in deterring individuals like those who attacked me from committing unthinkable and violent crimes against others because of where they are from, the color of their skin, the God they worship, the person they love, or the way they look, talk or act."

Sadly, while David Ritcheson survived the physical attacks against him, he was not able to survive the emotional scars they left. On Sunday, July 1, 2007, David Ritcheson apparently jumped to his death from the upper deck of a cruise ship in the Gulf of Mexico.

Sent by Rick Leal
GGR1031@aol.com

Filipinos in Louisiana and the Filipinos in America

Please take a look at how our Filipinos brothers were discriminated since they first arrived to the Americas. Click the Filipinos in Louisiana and the Filipinos in America just above the 1900 timeline. White America forget that when the founding fathers wrote about Freedom and justice for "all" they really meant except Africans, Mexicans and Indians and Orientals of that time. All of our children have to know the Real Story of the beginning of America, so that they can understand why women and minorities fight so hard for "Equality and Justice".
http://www.pbs.org/ancestorsintheamericas/timeline.html
Rafael Ojeda

Extracts from a review of 'Silent Racism" by Barbara Trepagnier
By Marc Speir
Texas State News Service - July 5, 2005

http://www.sanmarcosrecord.com/local/local_story_186112038.html/resources_printstory

SAN MARCOS, TEXAS - Barbara Trepagnier says that people should replace the question of whether or not they are racist with asking themselves how they are racist.

"It's a much more fruitful question," Trepagnier, a sociology professor at Texas State University, said. "We're this way because of the stereotypes we all grew up with and the ideas in our head have everything to do with our actions. My point is that those stereotypes matter."

Trepagnier argues that every person harbors some racist thoughts and feelings, and that the acknowledgements of these attitudes are important to changing racial inequality.

The 66 year-old recently celebrated Paradigm Publishers' March 30 paperback release of her book entitled, Silent Racism: How Well-Meaning White People Perpetuate the Racial Divide, as it continues to find further shelf space in bookstores nationwide.

"I'm referring to systemic racism," Trepagnier said. "Blacks can certainly act with prejudice. But with whites as the majority in our society, racism becomes an institutional structure practiced by the dominant group."

The 181-page book explains that "silent racism," while rarely noticed by the white community, constructs an institutional framework that perpetuates an inequality between whites and blacks in the United States.

"Silent racism refers to the negative thoughts and images white people have about other groups," Trepagnier said. "They're harmful because they come out sometimes without our realizing it, and not just to other races or ethnic groups, but any oppressed group."

Her book contends that "silent racism" fosters routine actions not recognized by an individual as racist, but upholds the status quo. She says that whites that deny the existence of racism or dismiss it as unimportant are often protecting white privilege.

Trepagnier says that the next step is to understand how institutional racism works. This includes
studying organizations in society such as the media, courts and schools, and exposing how different races are depicted and treated accordingly.

Trepagnier says that every white person, as a member of the majority group of American society, must come to an understanding that they are part of the institutional structure.

As a last step, she claims that fostering close relationships with people from other races alleviate these tensions and are essential for heightening race awareness.

Sent by Willis Papillion willis35@earthlink.net

Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients

Part 6

By Tony (The Marine) Santiago

This is the sixth part of the Hispanic Medal of Honor series which consists of the short biographies of Korean War recipients Ambrosio Guillen, Rodolfo P. Hernandez, Baldomero Lopez and Benito Martinez.

Among the many obstacles that many Hispanics faced during the Korean War was the harsh cold climate and the language barrier. However, they overcame these and many other obstacles and served their country with pride. With only two days to go before a cease fire was declared, Staff Sergeant Guillen refused medical aid and continued to direct his men throughout the remainder of the engagement until the enemy was defeated.

No less amazing is the story of Corporal Rodolfo P. Hernandez. Hernandez, who was born to a humble family of farm workers was truly a one-man army. The thing is that a grenade explosion that blew away part of his brain and knocked him unconscious. Hernandez, who had received grenade, bayonet, and bullet wounds, appeared dead to the first medic who reached him. Read his story and find out what happened.

First Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez’s parents immigrated from Spain. The photo below that shows Lopez leading his men over the seawall at Inchon was taken only seconds before he was mortally wounded. Lopez was the only Hispanic Medal of Honor recipient alumni of the United States Naval Academy .

Then we have the story of Corporal Benito Martinez who refused to retreat to a safer position in order to provide the firepower necessary to cover his company withdraw. He stood his ground and fought the enemy single-handed .

I ask myself, how is it possible that this day and age sacrifices made by these and other Hispanics have not received the recognition deserved. How is it possible that PBS was going to air the documentary the "The War" which omitted the Hispanic contributions in World War II? Why was it necessary for various Latino organizations to threaten the networks sponsors with a boycott before PBS and the films producer finally decided to do something about their injustice?

Note: "*" after a name indicates that the person was awarded the MoH posthumously.

Ambrosio Guillen*

By: ERcheck

Staff Sergeant Ambrosio Guillen

Staff Sergeant Ambrosio Guillen (1929-1953) was a United States Marine who was posthumously award the Medal of Honor — the United States' highest military honor — for his heroic actions and sacrifice of life during the Korean War, two days before the cease fire. He was responsible for turning an overwhelming enemy attack into a disorderly retreat.

Biography

Ambrosio Guillen was born on December 7, 1929 in La Junta, Colorado, and grew up in El Paso, Texas. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 18. He completed recruit training at San Diego, California, and was assigned to the 6th Marines. Later he was chosen for Sea School, and after graduation, served after on the USS Curtis. Following his tour of sea duty, he was appointed a drill instructor at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego.

As a drill instructor, he trained two honor platoons and was given a Letter of Appreciation by his Commanding General. In that letter, Major Gen. John T. Walker observed that "your success in training these two platoons has demonstrated your outstanding ability as a leader."

That ability was proved in combat soon after SSgt Guillen arrived in Korea. On July 25, 1953, while defending a forward outpost, near Songuch-on, against hostile fire, he and his platoon were able to put the enemy in retreat. During the fighting, Guillen was mortally wounded. For his heroic leadership and sacrifice of life, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

After the truce, his body was escorted to the United States by his brother, who had been serving in the Far East with the Army. SSgt Guillen was buried in Texas on October 20, 1953, at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.

His Medal or Honor was presented to his parents by the Secretary of the Navy Charles S. Thomas at ceremonies in his office on August 18, 1954.

Medal of Honor citation:

STAFF SERGEANT AMBROSIO GUILLEN
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

CITATION: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a platoon Sergeant of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, First Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on July 25, 1953. Participating in the defense of an outpost forward of the main line of resistance, Staff Sergeant Guillen maneuvered his platoon over unfamiliar terrain in the face of hostile fire and placed his men in fighting positions. With his unit pinned down when the outpost was attacked under cover of darkness by an estimated force of two enemy battalions supported by mortar and artillery fire, he deliberately exposed himself to the heavy barrage and attacks to direct his men in defending their positions and personally supervise the treatment and evacuation of the wounded. Inspired by his leadership, the platoon quickly rallied and engaged the enemy force in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Although critically wounded during the course of the battle, Staff Sergeant Guillen refused medical aid and continued to direct his men throughout the remainder of the engagement until the enemy was defeated and thrown into disorderly retreat. Succumbing to his wounds within a few hours, Staff Sergeant Guillen, by his outstanding courage and indomitable fighting spirit, was directly responsible for the success of his platoon in repelling a numerically superior enemy force. His personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Rodolfo P. Hernandez

By Tony (The Marine) Santiago

Cpl. Rodolfo P. Hernandez

Cpl. Rodolfo P. Hernandez (born April 14, 1931) is a former United States Army soldier who was awarded the Medal of Honor — the United States' highest military decoration — for his actions in the Korean War. Despite his wounds, Hernandez's actions during an enemy counterattack near Wonton-ni allowed his platoon to retake their defensive position.

Early years

Hernandez, a Mexican-American, is one of eight children born to a farm worker. At a young age his family moved from Colton where Hernandez was born, to Fowler, California, where he received his primary education. In 1948, when he was 17 years old, he joined the United States Army with his parents' consent.

After completing his basic training, Hernandez volunteered for paratrooper training. Upon the completion of his paratrooper training he was sent to Germany, where he was stationed until the outbreak of the Korean War.

Korean War

On August 27, 1950, the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment was reorganized and redesignated as the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team. The unit was quickly sent to Korea. The 187th Airborne performed operations into Munsan-ni Valley, and fought bloody battles at Inje and Wonton-ni.

Hernandez was reassigned to Company G of the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team. His platoon was ordered to defend Hill 420, located near Wonton-ni. On May 31, 1951, his platoon was the object of a numerically superior enemy counterattack. A close-quarters firefight broke out when enemy troops surged up the hill and inflicted numerous casualties on the platoon. Hernandez was wounded during the attack, but he was able to fire upon the rushing enemy troops. After his rifle ruptured, he continued attacking the enemy with his bayonet. His attack enabled his comrades to regroup and take back the Hill.

A grenade explosion that blew away part of his brain knocked him unconscious. Hernandez, who had received grenade, bayonet, and bullet wounds, appeared dead to the first medic who reached him. The medic realized, however, that Hernandez was still alive when he saw him move his fingers. Hernandez woke up a month later in a military hospital, unable to move his arms or legs or to talk.

On April 11, 1952, President Harry S. Truman bestowed upon Rodolfo P. Hernandez the Medal of Honor in a ceremony held in the Rose Garden of the White House.

After many surgeries and physical therapy over a five year period, Rodolfo P. Hernandez regained limited use of his right arm and learned to write with his left hand.

Medal of Honor citation:

Rodolfo P. Hernandez
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company G, 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team.
Place and date: Near Wontong-ni, Korea, 31 May 1951.
Entered service at: Fowler, California
Born: 14 April 1931, Colton, Calif.
G.O. No.: 40, 21 April 1962.

Citation: "Cpl. Hernandez, a member of Company G, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy.

His platoon, in defensive positions on Hill 420, came under ruthless attack by a numerically superior and fanatical hostile force, accompanied by heavy artillery, mortar, and machinegun fire which inflicted numerous casualties on the platoon.

His comrades were forced to withdraw due to lack of ammunition but Cpl. Hernandez, although wounded in an exchange of grenades, continued to deliver deadly fire into the ranks of the onrushing assailants until a ruptured cartridge rendered his rifle inoperative.

Immediately leaving his position, Cpl. Hernandez rushed the enemy armed only with rifle and bayonet.

Fearlessly engaging the foe, he killed 6 of the enemy before falling unconscious from grenade, bayonet, and bullet wounds but his heroic action momentarily halted the enemy advance and enabled his unit to counterattack and retake the lost ground.

The indomitable fighting spirit, outstanding courage, and tenacious devotion to duty clearly demonstrated by Cpl. Hernandez reflect the highest credit upon himself, the infantry, and the U.S. Army. "

Currently

Rodolfo P. Hernandez is now married and has three children. He is retired from a job at the Veterans Administration and currently lives in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The Carteret County Veterans Council named Hernandez, together with General Kenneth Glueck, commanding general of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing at Cherry Point, the grand marshals of its November 11, 2006 annual Veterans Day Parade held in downtown Morehead City.

Awards and recognitions

Among Rodolfo P. Hernandez's decorations and medals are the following:
Medal of Honor
Purple Heart Medal
Army of Occupation Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Korean Service Medal with two bronze stars
United Nations Service Medal

Baldomero Lopez*

By: Looper5920

First Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez

Baldomero Lopez (August 23, 1925—September 15, 1950) was a First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for smothering a hand grenade with his own body during the Inchon Landing, on September 15, 1950.

Baldomero Lopez was born in Tampa Bay, Florida. He was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy, and upon graduating June 6, 1947, was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps.

He attended The Basic School at Quantico, Virginia, after which he became a platoon commander in the Platoon Leaders Class Training Regiment.

In 1948, 2dLt Lopez went to China, where he served as a mortar section commander and later as a rifle platoon commander at Tsingtao and Shanghai. On his return from China he was assigned to Camp Pendleton, California.

He was serving there when, shortly after the outbreak of the Korean war, he volunteered for duty as an infantry officer in Korea. He was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant on June 16, 1950.

Lopez was forever immortalized in a picture of him leading his men over the seawall at Inchon shortly before his death.

News of his heroic death spread quickly among fellow Marines on the battlefronts. A Scripps-Howard war correspondent, Jerry Thorp, said in a news story on 1stLt Lopez's deed that he "died with the courage that makes men great."

In addition to the Medal of Honor, 1stLt Lopez's decorations include the Purple Heart Medal, Presidential Unit Citation with one bronze star, China Service Medal, and Korean Service Medal with two bronze stars.

Lopez leading his men over the seawall at Inchon.

Naval Ships

1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez (T-AK-3010) is one of the Military Sealift Command's seventeen Container & Roll-on/Roll-off Ships and is part of the 36 ships in the Prepositioning Program it is assigned to Maritime Prepositioning Program Squadron Two under the operational control of MSC Far East and operates out of Diego Garcia. In addition, a room in Bancroft Hall, the Naval Academy's dormitory, is dedicated to him, with a display including his photo and a bronze plaque of his Medal of Honor citation.

Benito Martinez*

By: Tony (The Marine) Santiago

Corporal Benito Martinez

Corporal Benito Martinez (April 21, 1932-September 6, 1952) was a United States Army soldier who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor — the United States' highest military decoration — for his actions on the near Satae-ri in Korea during the Korean War. Martinez was mortally wounded while solely defending his outpost. His actions enabled his company to take back the terrain which they had lost.

Early years

Martinez was a Mexican-American born to Mr. and Mrs. Francisco Martinez in Fort Hancock, Texas. There, he received his primary and secondary education. He joined the United States Army at the recruiting station in his hometown. Martinez completed his basic training and was eventually assigned to Company A (Able Company) of the 25th Infantry Division.

Korean War

The North Korean Communist forces invaded the Republic of Korea on June 25, 1950. The 25th Infantry Division (whose nickname was "Wolfhounds") was stationed in Hawaii and in July was put on alert. By July 18, the entire division was in Pusan in Republic of Korea.

On February 23, 1952, the 25th Division, under the command of Major General Ira P. Swift, was in the front line in the center of the X Corps sector near Mundung-ni northeast of the Hwach'on Reservoir. The division assumed the front line routine of patrols, ambushes, artillery exchanges, and bunker maintenance. The division also secured and defended forward outposts beyond the main line of resistance.

Martinez's unit, the 2nd Platoon of A Company, inherited a position known as Sandbag Castle from Charlie Company (C Company). On the night of September 5, 1952, Corporal Martinez was in Outpost Agnes performing forward listening post duties. Outpost Agnes was a bunker large enough to hold four soldiers. Shortly after midnight, the North Koreans began shelling Sandbag Castle. During a lull in the shelling, the men of the 27th inside the castle were able to spot crawling North Korean soldiers whose intentions were to cut off the forward bunkers and Outpost Anges.

Martinez ordered the three men in his bunker to return to the Sandbag Castle. His commanding officer, Lieutenant McLean called him on the sound power telephone and ordered him to get out. Martinez, knowing the situation better than anyone, replied that he would have to stay on and delay the North Koreans as long as possible. Martinez remained at his post and with his machinegun inflicted numerous casualties on the attacking troops. When he ran out of ammunition he retreated to a bunker destroyed by enemy shelling and from there continued his assault with a Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR). Martinez was mortally wounded before his unit was able to counterattack and regain their terrain.

On December 29, 1953, President Harry S. Truman presented the family of Benito Martinez with the Medal of Honor.

Medal of Honor citation:

BENITO MARTINEZ

Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company A, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.

Place and date: Near Satae-ri Korea, 6 September 1952.
Entered service at: Fort Hancock, Texas
Born: 21 March 1931, Fort Hancock, Texas
G.O. No.: 96, 29 December 1953

Citation: "Cpl. Martinez, a machine gunner with Company A, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. While manning a listening post forward of the main line of resistance, his position was attacked by a hostile force of reinforced company strength. In the bitter fighting which ensued, the enemy infiltrated the defense perimeter and, realizing that encirclement was imminent, Cpl. Martinez elected to remain at his post in an attempt to stem the onslaught. In a daring defense, he raked the attacking troops with crippling fire, inflicting numerous casualties. Although contacted by sound power phone several times, he insisted that no attempt be made to rescue him because of the danger involved. Soon thereafter, the hostile forces rushed the emplacement, forcing him to make a limited withdrawal with only an automatic rifle and pistol to defend himself. After a courageous 6-hour stand and shortly before dawn, he called in for the last time, stating that the enemy was converging on his position His magnificent stand enabled friendly elements to reorganize, attack, and regain the key terrain. Cpl. Martinez' incredible valor and supreme sacrifice reflect lasting glory upon himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service."

Honors

Cpl. Benito Martinez was buried with full military honors at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso, Texas. Both cities, El Paso and Fort Hancock, have honored his memory by naming elementary schools after him.

Awards and recognitions
Among Benito Martinez's decorations and medals were the following:
Medal of Honor
Purple Heart Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Korean Service Medal with two bronze stars
United Nations Service Medal
Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation

I hope that you all are enjoying this series. In next months issue of "Somos Primos" you will learn about Eugene Arnold Obregon and Joseph C. Rodriguez. Then I will start with the Vietnam War recipients, John P. Baca and Roy P. Benavidez.

VICENTE RIVA PALACIO THE POET Translations and Commentary by Ted Vincent Fsln@aol.com Poetry was a vehicle through which Vicente Riva Palacio added feelings and insight to the historical panorama of Mexico that he presented in his historical novels, short stories and texts. One of his volumes of verse is devoted to the nation’s folk tales, myths and legends. Included in "Tradiciones y leyendas mexicanas" are much told colonial stories as "La Llorena," (The Weeping Woman) and "La Mulata de Cordoba" (tale of the black mystic who foils the Inquisitor and avoids her auto de fe). Although the world of the past was his preferred theme, Riva Palacio did occasionally write of his own time and his own life. Poetry was his prime vehicle for these more personal subjects. Four selections are presented below. The first is "A Mi Madre," a remembrance of his mother. In it he claims a recollection from around twelve months of age, and if this seems young for the memory retention of most mortals it may be noted that accounts from his school age years from teachers and fellow students describe a remarkably intellectually adept youngster, so, perhaps the baby did recall the following..
A MI MADRE ¡Oh cuan lejos están aquellos dias En que cantando alegre y placentera Jugando con mi negra cabellera En tu blando regazo me dormías Con que grato embeleso recogías La balbuciente frase pasajera que, Por ser de mis labios la primera, Con maternal orgullo repetías. Hoy que de la vejez con que quebranto Mi barba se desata en blanco armiño, Y contemplo la vida sin encanto El recordar tu celestial cariño, De mis cansados ojos brota el llanto, Porque pensando en ti me siento niño.	TO MY MOTHER Oh, how far are those days of your pleasant singing, playing with my black hair, as I slept in your soft lap. With what rapture of delight you recognize the babbling phrase the first words from my lips that you repeat with maternal pride. Today in creaking old age my beard spotted with white I contemplate a life without enchantment Remembering your celestial affection my tired eyes weep because thinking of you I feel like a boy
A WARTIME POEM OF RECONCILIATION Poems by Riva Palacio were frequently put to song. The poem "Adios Mama Carlota" became one of the most popular ballads of late 19^th Century Mexico. The Carlota of the title is the wife of Arch-Duke Maximilian of the Austrian Empire, who headed a brief French-Austrian Empire in Mexico. The first memorable battle of Maximilian’s attempted re-colonization of Mexico was the defeat of his troops at Puebla, on May 5, 1862 (Cinco de Mayo) at which Riva Palacio was a foot soldier, and Maximilian’s ultimate defeat came in 1867, at which Riva Palacio was one of the three Mexican generals who accepted the Emperor’s surrender. As Maximilian’s cause waned in 1866, fear spread of a bitter aftermath of revenge against the aristocratic Mexican elite that supported the Emperor. In July of that year Riva Palacio seized an opportunity to express his feelings toward reconciliation. He had recently been elevated to General and was at his military headquarters in the dusty "hot country" town of Huetemo when a messenger burst into the room and handed a note that said that the Emperor’s wife Carlota had fled to Europe to seek assistance for her husband. As related in a history of the war: Vicente read for a moment while sipping a cup of coffee. He asked his secretary to get pen and paper, and then Vicente "dictated without pause, without meditation, without changing or correcting a single word" the words for "Adios Mama Carlota." (Goodby Mother Carlota). Though sarcastic, the poem’s images of the pathetic world of the Empress conveyed sympathy. He arranged the words to be sung to the popular song "La Paloma." Within hours they were sung by his troops as they would be across the nation by the soldiers of Mexican President Benito Juarez..
ADIÓS, MAMÁ CARLOTA Alegre el marinero Con voz pausada canta, Y el ancla ya levanta Con extraño rumor. La nave va en los mares Botando cual pelota. Adiós, mamá Carlota; Adiós, mi tierno amor. De la remota playa Te mira con tristeza La estúpida nobleza Del mocho y del traidor. En lo hondo de su pecho Ya sienten su derrota. Adiós, mamá Carlota; Adiós, mi tierno amor. Acábanse en Palacio Tertulias, juegos, bailes, Agítanse los frailes En fuerza de dolor. La chusma de las cruces Gritando se alborota. Adiós, mamá Carlota; Adiós, mi tierno amor. Murmuran sordamente Los tristes chambelanes, Lloran los capellanes Y las damas de honor. El triste Chuchu Hermosa Canta con lira rota: Adiós, mamá Carlota; Adiós, mi tierno amor. Y en tanto los chinacos Que ya cantan victoria, Guardando tu memoria Sin miedo ni rencor, Dicen mientras el viento Tu embarcación azota; Adiós, mamá Carlota; Adiós, mi tierno amor.	ADIOS MAMA CARLOTA The sailor cheers in slow voice sings While the anchor is raised The strange rumor spreads And he hurls his call As the ship goes to sea. Adios, Mama Carlota ; Adios, my tender love. From a remote beach You are watched, sadly The stupidity of Nobility Forced out with traitors You feel the defeat In the depth of your breast Adios, Mama Carlota Adios, my tender love. The gatherings, games and dances Finish in the palace. The Friars are shaken By the force of their pain The gally hands of the crossing Raise their loud call Adios, Mama Carlota Adios, my tender love. The chambermaids murmur In long deaf sounds The chaplains cry With the Grand Dames of Honor And the beautiful gossiper Plays on broken lire Adios, Mama Carlota Adios, my tender love. Already the Chinacos Sing of the victory Guarding your memory Without hatred or rancor Saying as the wind Whips you boat ahead Adios, Mama Carlota Adios, my tender love.
After the war the catch phrase "without hatred or rancor" was frequent in political discussions between factions. Closely identified with the phrase, Riva Palacio’s supporters urged a vote for him in a judgeship election because he was "without hatred or rancor." SUPPORT FOR THE TROOPS The "Chinacos" of the above poem are defined in present day dictionaries as soldiers for Mexico in the war against Maximilian, and/or, soldiers for the "liberal" political cause of Juarez, whose fourteen year presidency included the years of the conflict with the French-Austrian army. These meanings were developed, in part by Riva Palacio, and they substituted for older and quite derogatory meanings that Maximilian’s propagandists dredged up when they labeled Riva Palacio, Juarez and company "Chinacos." The meanings included: a person of no social grace, a runaway, lower class Indian who had left the homeland, a mixed race person with African heritage, a half Indian/half African, a robber, a slave, a guerrilla, a creature of the night, a bat, a bent twig, a person with multiple personalities, and more. Riva Palacio threw the term back at Maximilian’s sloganeers. "La Chinaca" was the proud title given to a culture magazine co-edited by Riva Palacio and Guillermo Prieto - a fellow poet and political ally of President Juarez. Riva Palacio wrote in the magazine that the rustic "Chinaco" was the admirable equal of adventurous and romantic "Gaucho" in Argentina The "Chinaco" and the "Gaucho" represented hard work and ingenuity, he said. Both symbolized a national identity and both were from the far regions rather than the respective capitals, Mexico City or Buenos Aires. Riva Palacio expressed his image of "Chinaco" in one of his poems published during the fight against the French-Austrian occupation. It read in part
EL CHINACO: (ROMANCE NACIONAL) Sobre los robustos lomos De un poderoso alazán, Que apenas deja la huella De su ligero trotar, A puntando la mañana Y camino a Tehuacán, Va Márgaro Peñadura, El chinaco mas cabal. Ancho bordado sombrero Cubre su morena faz, Y matiza su sarape La bandera nacional. En el cinto la pistola, El mosquete en el carcaj, Bajo la pierna la espada, Y en la bota su puñal. Busca inquiete entre la bruma Y descubre “a poco mas” Pequeña casa escondida En las sombras de un palmar, Y dejando su camino Y aguijando su animal. En un instante el jinete Cerca de la casa esta. … Y como si ya impaciente Se cansara de aguardar, Da golpes en la ventana, Y muestra luego su faz Una morena, que puede Pasar por una beldad, De esas que hemos visto todos Y nos han hecho sonar, Y que siempre se recuerdan Como visión ideal - ¡Alabo, don Margarito! ¿Tan temprano por acá? Pues ya me voy a marchar. -No me pesa, Dios me libre; Pero dicen que aquí están Los franceses, - No hay cuidado, Porque vengo a explorar. …Inclinóse la doncella, Un beso se oyó sonar; Alzo el chinaco el embozo, Cobro su empaque marcial Y se perdió entre la bruma Galopando en su alazán.	EL CHINACO: ROMANCE NACIONAL On the strong back Of a sturdy chestnut horse That scarcely leaves a footprint From his light trot. At the break of day On the road to Tehuacan Comes Margaro Penadura, The consummate Chinaco. The wide brimmed sombrero Covers his moreno face Blending its color with his serape Our national flag. In his belt the pistol, The musket in the quiver By his leg the sword And in the boot the dagger He peers restlessly through the mist And discovers, "the little place"... The small house Hidden in the shadows of a palm. And leaving the road And spurring on his animal In an instant the horseman Is at the house’s door. And being already impatient Too eager to pause He raps upon the window, At which there appears the face Of a morena who can Pass for a female beauty, One of those we’ve all seen And that makes us sound off And that one always remembers as the ideal vision. "Praise be with you Don Margarito But why come so early?" "Do I alarm you, light of my eyes? It’s that I have been called to march." "You don’t alarm me. God guides me. But they say that the French are near." "Do not be concerned. I will be looking out.." ... The maiden leans forward The sound of a kiss is heard The Chinaco throws back his scarf Arranges his martial attire And is lost in the fog Galloping on his chestnut horse
That the noble Chinaco is moreno (brown), as is the woman who represents feminine beauty, exemplifies a Riva Palacio penchant for crediting his fellow citizens of color. THE FEEL OF PRISON The long career of Vicente Riva Palacio included imprisonment for his politically liberal views during the late 1850s, and again in 1884, when he earned a half year behind bars for his criticism of the political turn to the right of strongman Porfirio Diaz and the Diaz pawn Manuel Gonzalez. The jail experience was captured in verse.
AL VIENTO Cuando era niño, con pavor te oía En las puertas gemir de mi aposento; Doloroso, tristísimo lamento De misteriosos seres te creía. Cuando era joven, tu rumor decía frases Que adivino mi pensamiento, Y cruzando después el campamento, "Patria", tu ronca voz me repetía. Hoy te siento azotando, En las oscuras noches, De mi prisión las fuertes rejas;

Extract: California is leading nation in diversity

U.S. Hispanic Media Market: Projections to 2010

[[Considering the PBS and media support of Burns, this seems like a good time to re-read Patrick Osio's 2004 rebuttal to Huntington's position. ]]

The American WASP – A Master Race?

By Sal Osio, JD/HispanicVista.com

They sit in sad remembrance,
Of wasted days gone by,
And curse their life for what it was,
And hang their head and cry.

But I don't concern myself with that,
I took a different vent,
I look forward to what life holds,
And not what has been spent.

So strap me to the engine,
As securely as I can be,
I want to be out on the front of the train of learning
To see what I can see and learn what I can learn.

I want to feel the winds of change,
Blowing in my face,
I want to see what life unfolds,
As I move from place to place.

I want to see what's coming up,
Not looking at the past,
Life's too short for yesterdays,
It moves along too fast.

So if the ride gets bumpy,
While you are looking back,
Go up front, and you may find,
Your educational life has jumped the track.

It's alright to remember your past life experiences,
That's part of your own history,
But up front's where it's happening,
There's so much mystery.

The enjoyment of living and learning,
Is not where we have been,
It's looking ever forward,
To another year and ten.

It's searching all the byways and highways of learning,
Never should you refrain,
For if you want to live your life and follow your heart’s desire,
You must drive your own Educational Train!

Extract: California is leading nation in diversity

U.S. Hispanic Media Market: Projections to 2010

[[Considering the PBS and media support of Burns, this seems like a good time to re-read Patrick Osio's 2004 rebuttal to Huntington's position. ]] The American WASP – A Master Race?

By Sal Osio, JD/HispanicVista.com

They sit in sad remembrance, Of wasted days gone by, And curse their life for what it was, And hang their head and cry.

But I don't concern myself with that, I took a different vent, I look forward to what life holds, And not what has been spent.

So strap me to the engine, As securely as I can be, I want to be out on the front of the train of learning To see what I can see and learn what I can learn.

I want to feel the winds of change, Blowing in my face, I want to see what life unfolds, As I move from place to place.

I want to see what's coming up, Not looking at the past, Life's too short for yesterdays, It moves along too fast.

So if the ride gets bumpy, While you are looking back, Go up front, and you may find, Your educational life has jumped the track.

It's alright to remember your past life experiences, That's part of your own history, But up front's where it's happening, There's so much mystery.

The enjoyment of living and learning, Is not where we have been, It's looking ever forward, To another year and ten.

It's searching all the byways and highways of learning, Never should you refrain, For if you want to live your life and follow your heart’s desire, You must drive your own Educational Train!

[[Considering the PBS and media support of Burns, this seems like a good time to re-read Patrick Osio's 2004 rebuttal to Huntington's position. ]]

The American WASP – A Master Race?

They sit in sad remembrance,
Of wasted days gone by,
And curse their life for what it was,
And hang their head and cry.

But I don't concern myself with that,
I took a different vent,
I look forward to what life holds,
And not what has been spent.

So strap me to the engine,
As securely as I can be,
I want to be out on the front of the train of learning
To see what I can see and learn what I can learn.

I want to feel the winds of change,
Blowing in my face,
I want to see what life unfolds,
As I move from place to place.

I want to see what's coming up,
Not looking at the past,
Life's too short for yesterdays,
It moves along too fast.

So if the ride gets bumpy,
While you are looking back,
Go up front, and you may find,
Your educational life has jumped the track.

It's alright to remember your past life experiences,
That's part of your own history,
But up front's where it's happening,
There's so much mystery.

The enjoyment of living and learning,
Is not where we have been,
It's looking ever forward,
To another year and ten.

It's searching all the byways and highways of learning,
Never should you refrain,
For if you want to live your life and follow your heart’s desire,
You must drive your own Educational Train!