#USA #Chicago #Chicago Latina Trailblazers #Rita Hernandez #Lourdes Duarte

Celebrating Chicago's Latina Trailblazers

The Chicago History Museum is gearing up for a remarkable event celebrating the book Chicago Latina Trailblazers: Testimonios of Political Activism. Set to take place on March 11, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago, this event will not only highlight the groundbreaking work featured in the book, but also honor the impactful stories of Latina activists who have left an indelible mark on the city's history.

This book, published in the fall of 2024, encapsulates the experiences of fourteen pioneering Latinas whose contributions have shaped political landscapes and communities throughout Chicago. At the helm of this initiative is Dr. Rita Hernandez, an accomplished scholar and advocate, whose vision aims to illuminate the often-overlooked history of Mexican and Puerto Rican women in activism within the city. Joining Dr. Hernandez will be emcee Lourdes Duarte, a respected Emmy Award-winning co-anchor for WGN Early Evening News, ensuring that the event is both engaging and inspiring.

Dr. Hernandez passionately believes that Chicago Latina Trailblazers serves as an eyewitness account of a vital narrative. According to her, “These women were the first to advance agendas, build institutions, forge alliances, and create essential resources from grassroots levels.” This celebration will give them a voice to share their legacies as advocates in fields such as politics, healthcare, social justice, and education.

Attending the event will be some of the contributing authors themselves, including:

• - Dr. Leticia Villarreal Sosa, renowned social work educator and founding editor-in-chief of the International Journal of School Social Work.
• - Mary Gonzales, a leader within the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, cofounder of Esperanza School and El Valor.
• - Marta Cerda, J.D., the first Latina on the Chicago Board of Education and founding executive director of the Latino Institute.
• - Dr. Aida Giachello, healthcare advocate and founder of the Midwest Latino Health Research Training and Policy Center.
• - Virginia Martinez, J.D., one of Illinois’s first Latina lawyers and founder of the Illinois Maternal and Child Health Coalition.
• - Luz Maria Solis, M.S., the executive producer of Mi Escuelita, the first Spanish-language educational show for children in the U.S.
• - Reverend Emma Lozano, founder of Centro Sin Fronteras, advocating for immigrant rights.

Each of these women will contribute to the event with speeches, culminating in a community Q&A session. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with these influential leaders and gain insight into their transformative work in various sectors. Additionally, other authors like Dr. Elena Mulcahy, former director of the Bureau of Bilingual Education, and Dr. Elena R. Gutierrez, reproductive justice advocate, will be present for book signings after the discussions.

Gregory Storms, senior public and community engagement manager at the Chicago History Museum, emphasizes the importance of this gathering: “The Museum is proud to shine a spotlight on these Latinas who have impacted Chicago with their passion for justice and grassroots activism. Their heritage and accomplishments have shaped the city's history, and it's time to hear their stories.”

The event will cost $10, with online registration currently open at www.chicagohistory.org/events. Participants can expect an enriching experience that not only explores the narratives found within Chicago Latina Trailblazers but also fosters a broader understanding of the contributions of Latinas in the fabric of Chicago’s culture and history.

In conclusion, the celebration of Chicago Latina Trailblazers is not just about honoring the past; it's about recognizing the ongoing influence and essential role that Latina leaders play in shaping the future of Chicago. Join us to be part of this significant event and share in the stories that continue to inspire generations.