Alberto M. Camarillo shares lessons and inspiration from a lifetime of teaching about race and ethnic relations. A perfect fit for Diverse Voices - Bravo!
I normally introduce novels for middle grade and young adult readers, but today I want to invite you to enjoy Dr. Camarillo’s personal story and professional perspective on our changing US society―the progress and backslides over half a century for racial equality and educational opportunity.
Why read it? This book provides a framework for understanding changes we experience in our classrooms and communities—not to mention Dr. Camarillo’s significant place in the field of Mexican American history and Chicano Studies. He has been a member of the Stanford University history faculty since 1975 and has served as the President of the Organization of American Historians.
How a Mexican Restaurant Nourished a Community, Natalia Molina;
"This profound memoir showcases Al Camarillo's great heart and extraordinary ability to find common cause amid diversity. His compelling storytelling seamlessly weaves threads of racial and ethnic history into the rich tapestry of our shared human experience."
Al’s story is my story, both of us born in South Central Los Angeles, to working class Mexican American parents, mid-century 1900s, progressing through the US educational system. Camarillo’s route was more consistent than mine. His work speaks to students and policymakers. My novels speak to young adults who are just beginning their path to adulthood. Introduce your students to the Mission Bells Trilogy, our shared history. https://anitaperezferguson.com
Follow me each week to meet more Latinx authors here at Diverse Voices - Bravo!
I read that he was the first Mexican American to receive his PhD in Mexican American History in the '60s. I'll ask my library to carry it to make it more accessible to students. Thanks for highlighting this book.
Very engaging recommendation about the history of a time and place.