A historical overview of U.S. Latino participation in World War II
PALACIOS, Texas – On September 28, a new exhibit called “Images of Valor: U.S. Latinos and Latinas in World War II” is coming to Palacios, City by the Sea Museum.
Created by the School of Journalism and Center for Mexican American studies at the University of Texas at Austin, the exhibit provides a historical overview of U.S. Latino participation in World War II through images and stories.
One story that stands out in the 12-panel exhibit is that of World War II veteran, Joe Bernal.
He took an active political role advocating for social improvement in Texas. Bernal was the primary author of a bill that removed state statutes supporting racial segregation and the state’s first bilingual education act in 1969 that would help create the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Founder of the Voces Oral History Project, Maggie Rivas Rodriguez, says World War II allowed the Latino community more educational opportunities.
“World War II was that watershed moment that opened up incredible opportunities for people, they got the chance to get an education a chance to see the world, they got a chance to see themselves as Americans. a lot of them for the first time,” says Rivas-Rodriguez.
For generations, Latinos have bravely fought to defend our country, earning countless medals of military honors and passing down the tradition of service and love of our country to future generations.
This exhibit also comes during Hispanic Heritage month, a month-long celebration that provides the crossroads with an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to veterans, dreamers, migrants, and to all Latinos who have done so much for the Hispanic community keeping America strong.
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