Chicano Federation has a long and rich history in San Diego. In the early days it helped open doors for Mexican Americans to advance and demand equality. They soon learned that they would only advance with litigation and leadership training. The litigation was needed to establish data and as a process to make life better for all of San Diego. Maria talks a little bit about Jesse Ramirez who, like so many others, came to San Diego as a young sailor. After retiring in San Diego, Jesse applied for the director position at the Federation. In spite of receiving threats to his life, he fought a hard battle in the quest for equality.

Irma Castro was born and Raised in San Diego. Her aunt Katie was a union organizer for the Cannery workers. By the age of five Irma knew Robert’s Rules of Order in English and Spanish. When Irma came to the Federation, she needed to make a plan along with a lawyer. With the late Richard Castillo, Castro sued both the City and the County of San Diego for their labor practices. Irma later became the director that established the Leadership Training Institute, a program created to help Latinos understand why it was so important to be “at the table” and not simply on the sidelines like in decades past. Irma shares a lot of the history of the Chicano Federation.

The final interview is with Liz Ramirez, the current director of the Chicano Federation. Liz came from the Imperial Valley of San Diego as a college student. She brings a fresh perspective to the Federation. Her enthusiasm is contagious and she believes planning is essential in working at the Federation. She also recognizes that there is a great deal of turmoil in the coming years and is focusing her effort on supporting the community in response. Liz will teach us about the history of the Chicano Federation as well as the plans for the future.

Make sure to stay up to date with new events, more podcasts, and great information by following the We Made San Diego Facebook page.