'U' to celebrate Chicano past, achievements

Lost chapters of Chicano history will be revisited by University students and Ann Arbor community members during the celebration of Chicano History Week.

The two-week commemoration begins today and is sponsored by Alianza, La Voz Mexicana and Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano/a Dae Aztlan. Events include movie viewings, art shows, a dance and speeches.

LSA senior Christina Urbina, who co-chairs La Voz Mexicana, said the festival's goal is to educate the University community about Chicano history.

"It's important for students to see that the University really does support our programs," Urbina said.

LSA sophomore Richard Nunn, co-chair of La Voz Mexicana, said Mexican Americans do not receive enough attention on campus.

"Mexican Americans don't really get recognition here," Nunn said. "It's time to show our presence."

Nunn said Chicano history is not taught in history classes and many students do not have an accurate understanding of Mexican American history.

"Chicano contribution to history isn't really portrayed at all," Nunn said.

Rackham first-year student Steven Hernandez, a MECha member, said the celebration of Chicano history is coming at a key time in light of the current lawsuits challenging the University's use of affirmative action in the admissions process Hernandez said the climate on campus is "dictating our actions."

"We are trying to formulate the energy around us," he said. "We are pretty much accommodating the atmosphere."

Hernandez said the goal of the week is to expose Chicano history not only to the Mexican American community but to the entire University.

"We don't want it just to be a Chicano crowd," Hernandez said. "There are other issues that transcends demographics."

Urbina said the event is not limited to students of color, adding that Mexican Americans' struggles, accomplishments and conflicts can serve as lessons for all students.

"I think its beneficial for all students to come," Urbina said.

Hernandez said MEChA is sponsoring speeches by two acclaimed journalists about affirmative action and other issues pertinent to minority groups. Hernandez said students have to take a more proactive stand.

"We are trying to make our politics and philosophy more portable," Hernandez said. "I am hoping people will wake up over the next two weeks."

Nunn said he encourages students from different cultural and religious backgrounds to come to gain an understanding of Mexican American history.

"It's important to understand where people are coming from in order to make the University more productive," Nunn said. "Diversity is an untapped resource."

02-02-98