LULAC's Proud History Began with Alonso S. Perales
LULAC National Educational Service Centers, Inc. (LNESC) was established in 1973 by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) to provide educational programming to high-need students throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Throughout 16 education and technology centers, LNESC has served over 607,000 students, sent 159,000 students on to college, and awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships. LNESC’s results are made possible by a network of dedicated field staff, top-notch teachers, over 90 school partners, and the support of LULAC - the nation’s largest membership based Latino organization. LNESC works to change lives and build Latino communities, one student at a time. www.lnesc.org
In the rich tapestry of American history, the contributions and struggles of Latino communities have often been overlooked or overshadowed. However, thanks to the tireless efforts of scholars like Dr. Cynthia Orozco, the stories of these unsung heroes are finally being brought to light. Dr. Orozco's book, "Pioneer of Mexican-American Civil Rights: Alonso S. Perales," stands as a testament to the fortitude, vision, and determination of one man who played a pivotal role in establishing the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).
With meticulous research and a compelling narrative, Dr. Cynthia E. Orozco transports readers back in time to the early 1900s, immersing them in the events and challenges that surrounded Alonso S. Perales. Her book delves deep into the life and mind of this visionary Latino leader, capturing the essence of an era marked by uncertainty and distress for the fate of Latinos in the United States.
Perales, as depicted by Dr. Orozco, emerges as a central figure in the formation of LULAC. His critical role in the formation of the Latin American Citizens League (LAC) laid the foundation for the organization. Through the merger of several South Texas groups, LULAC became a beacon of hope and a force for change.
Orozco's book sheds light on Perales' correspondence with other civil rights leaders, his relentless advocacy for state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and his courageous fight for better educational opportunities for Mexican-American children. These struggles predated the better-known battles of the latter half of the 20th century, making Perales a true pioneer of Mexican-American civil rights.
As Dr. Orozco's extensive research uncovers, Alonso Perales' early life was marked by hardship. Orphaned as a child, he found himself in Alice, Texas where he was raised by the Crescencio Trevino family and later attended a business college in San Antonio. Despite the odds stacked against him, Perales displayed remarkable determination. During World War I, he served as an army field clerk in San Antonio before finding employment with the Department of Commerce in Washington DC. It was there that he achieved academic success, earning a high school diploma, a bachelor's degree, and ultimately a law degree. Perales went on to serve in the diplomatic corps, undertaking thirteen missions in Latin America.
Dr. Orozco's book, "Pioneer of Mexican-American Civil Rights: Alonso S. Perales," not only illuminates the life of one man but also serves as a call to action. It sparks a deeper interest in the lives of the early Latino social justice champions, both men and women, who paved the way for equality and justice. Through her meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Orozco ensures that their stories are not forgotten, and that future generations of scholars will have the opportunity to delve into their invaluable contributions.
For those who seek to understand the struggles and triumphs of Mexican-American civil rights, Dr. Cynthia Orozco's book is must-read. It stands as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of Alonso S. Perales, a true pioneer in the fight for equality. By ordering "Pioneer of Mexican-American Civil Rights: Alonso S. Perales," readers can embark on a journey of discovery, gaining a deeper appreciation for the visionaries who shaped the history of Latino communities in the United States.
Dr. Cynthia Orozco's work as an author, historian, educator, and public speaker has garnered recognition and accolades. Her expertise and passion for Mexican-American history have allowed her to shed light on the often-overlooked stories of Latino leaders. With her insightful books and extensive contributions to the field, she has become a revered figure in academia and an invaluable resource for those interested in understanding the rich tapestry of American history.
To order "Pioneer of Mexican-American Civil Rights: Alonso S. Perales" by Dr. Cynthia Orozco, readers can visit www.artepublicopress.com/product/pioneer-of-mexican-american-civil-right-alonso-s-perales/. By supporting this important work, readers contribute to the preservation and celebration of the struggles and triumphs of Latino communities, ensuring that their stories are acknowledged and cherished for generations to come.
###
