Support for Mexican-American Studies Programs

WHEREAS, the League of United Latin American Citizens is this nation’s oldest and largest Latino organization, founded in Corpus Christi, Texas on February 17, 1929; and

WHEREAS, LULAC throughout its history has committed itself to the principles that Latinos have equal access to opportunities in employment, education, housing and healthcare; and

WHEREAS, LULAC has developed a comprehensive set of nationwide programs fostering educational attainment, job training, housing, scholarships, citizenship, and voter registration; and

WHEREAS, LULAC members throughout the nation have developed a tremendous track record of success advancing the economic condition, educational attainment, political influence, health and civil rights of the population of the United States; and

WHEREAS, LULAC has adopted a legislative platform that promotes humanitarian relief for citizens and immigrants, increased educational opportunities for our youth, and equal treatment for all in the United States and its territories including the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes the cultural diversity within the United States and the strong Hispanic history and cultural foundation that our Nation has; and

WHEREAS, the Hispanic population is continuing to grow within the United States; and

WHEREAS, cultural heritage and history are important components in the establishment of pride and confidence among our local Hispanic youth; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes the importance of offering all students an American historical narrative that transcends one culture and one race; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes the importance of relevant and meaningful curriculum; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes that Mexican-American Studies courses in no way, shape or form promote the overthrow of the United States government; and

WHEREAS, the LULAC recognizes that Mexican-American Studies courses are designed for all children; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes that the inclusion of historical oppression within the curriculum does not inherently promote the resentment of a particular group of people nor does it promote anti-American sentiments; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes that Mexican-American Studies courses in no way, shape, or form, promote ethnic exclusion, but rather, build and strengthen the social bridges between our students and within our community; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes that the diversity of thought helps students become more skillful critical thinkers; and

WHEREAS, LULAC recognizes that Mexican-American Studies courses promote a more inclusive historical narrative of the United States, and through the recognition of respect of cultural diversity, and through the promotion of greater critical thinking and diversity of thought, creates an educational experience that is rigorous and inclusive in nature and scope; and

WHEREAS, LULAC supports ethnic diversity study programs for all public school districts; and

WHEREAS, LULAC membership includes educational school representation across the Nation; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that League of United Latin American Citizens does hereby declare its unwavering support of Mexican-American Studies Programs for public schools across the country and in particular the Tucson Unified School District.

Approved this 1st day of July 2011.

Margaret Moran
LULAC National President