LITTLE ROCK, AR -- When LULAC was founded 76 years ago, racial discrimination, political disenfranchisement, and segregation were rampant in this country. Wishing to improve these conditions, the founders of LULAC created the organization with the principles of freedom and democracy in mind. As advancements were made in civil rights, LULAC played an important part every step of the way.



Since its inception on February 17, 1929, LULAC has championed the cause of Latinos in the United States and Puerto Rico. When LULAC was formed, Hispanics attended segregated schools, restaurants and public facilities; could not serve on juries; were often denied the right to vote; had their lands routinely taken from them; and were the objects of racially motivated lynchings throughout the southwest.



"When LULAC was created in 1929," stated Hector M. Flores, LULAC National President, "it was a very difficult time for Latinos in the United States. Our first priority was to insist on equal treatment for our people under the law and to help our community to excel in school and in their careers." This idea of equality for all became increasingly important as the number of Hispanics grew.



Understanding the importance of education in achieving freedom and democracy, LULAC has placed special emphasis on programs aimed to help Hispanics succeed at all levels of education. In 1957, LULAC began working on a program called the "Little Schools of the 400," the model for what later became the Head Start Program. In 1973, LNESC (LULAC National Education Service Centers) was created to counsel young Hispanics and assist them to obtain a higher education. In considering court cases regarding schools and education, one finds that LULAC has played an essential role in many of the most crucial ones.



The view of LULAC was best summarized by Mr. Flores who said, "Education is the basis for lifelong success. Without education we cannot become the leaders of our own fate."



As the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) celebrates its 76th anniversary this year it’s members reflected back on its rich history of service to Latinos around the country. Looking back on the last 76 years, it becomes apparent that LULAC has played an influential role in the advancement of civil rights in this country. With regard to what lies ahead, as the number of Hispanics grows, it is increasingly clear that how ...