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Latino Voting Rights Activist Willie Velasquez Remembered As Hero

William C. Velasquez Institute
Willie Velasquez fought to gain voting rights for Latinos in the Southwest

He died young and unexpectedly more than 25 years ago, but his political legacy continues today.

The Texas Legislature and Gov. Rick Perry have designated today, Friday, May 9, as Willie Velasquez Day. A fighter for Latino voting rights across the Southwest,  the late activist died suddenly of cancer in 1988 at the age of 44.

Independent producer Maria Martin has this remembrance of the man many call a pioneer and hero. Listen in the audio player above. 

 

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