VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos

Episode 3: Solidarity in a New Era

Overview

• Host: John Leguizamo
• Explores Latinos' significant contributions to the U.S.
• Reflects on Latinos as integral to U.S. history, not a side note.

Historical Context

• 1900s Industrial Changes: Introduction of cars, motion pictures, and flight.
• Ongoing Discrimination: Despite contributions, Latinos faced racism.

Latino Contributions and Struggles

• World War II Heroes: Silvestre Herrera awarded the Medal of Honor.
• 20th Century Activism: Latino civil rights movements parallel to African American struggles.
• Education Activism: Latino students fought for equal education opportunities.

Key Historical Events

• 1917 Bath Riots: Carmelita Torres led protests against invasive health inspections at the U.S.-Mexico border.
• Great Depression and Repatriation: Mexicans and Mexican Americans faced mass deportations during economic downturns.
• Emma Tenayuca and Labor Movements: Led the 1938 Pecan Shellers' Strike in San Antonio at age 21.

Military Contributions

• Silvestre Herrera: Medal of Honor recipient in WWII.
• Guy Gabaldon: Captured over 1,300 enemy soldiers single-handedly.
• Company E and Borinqueneers: All-Mexican and Puerto Rican units in WWII and Korean War, respectively.

Civil Rights and Labor Movements

• United Farm Workers: Led by Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez, fought for farm workers' rights.
• Méndez v. Westminster: Precedent case ending school segregation in California.

Modern Activism

• 1968 East L.A. Walkouts: Latino students protested for better educational conditions.
• Young Lords: Puerto Rican activists focused on community issues like health and education.

Key Figures

• Dolores Huerta: Co-founder of the United Farm Workers, pivotal in labor rights movements.
• Emma Tenayuca: Labor leader known for her activism in the 1938 Pecan Shellers' Strike.

Cultural Impact

• Latino Representation: Importance of Latino contributions to American history and culture.
• Media Representation: Urges inclusion of Latino stories in history education and media.

Conclusion

• Latinos play a crucial role in shaping U.S. history.
• Importance of teaching and acknowledging Latino history as part of the national narrative.
• Call for ongoing efforts to correct historical narratives and celebrate Latino contributions.