Latino Histories
Miguel Hernandez Keith - Latino Vietnam War Hero
Marine Lance Corporal Miguel Keith received the Medal of Honor after losing his life May 8, 1970 protecting his troops during an Vietnam War enemy attack. Keith is the second Latino Medal of Honor winner from Omaha; the first was Eddie "Babe" Gomez, who died in the Korean War. (Photo courtesy of Mary Easley and the Keith family)
The Chicano Movement
The Chicano Movement was a social movement that began in 1968. The term Chicano was originally used as a derogatory label for the sons and daughters of Mexican Immigrants. The Chicano Movement began in California and extended to Omaha by the early 1970s. Through the Chicano Movement, Mexicans sought to obtain equality in political rights (including voting), quality employment, and a good education. Mexicans created their community to embrace identify and to show pride in their culture and background.
American G.l. Forum
On October 8, 1957, 14 Latino veterans formed The Omaha Chapter of the American G.I. Forum. The veterans sacrificed their homes, money. and free time. Thanks to the help from Dr. Hector Garcia, the Omaha veterans worked toward equal rights as well as education that would benefit the Mexican-American community. The work continues today encouraging higher education by giving out scholarships, loyal patriotism. and social and political advocacy.
Mexican Basketball Tournaments
One of the most important sports experiences for Latino immigrants in South Omaha was the Mexican Basketball Tournament, which began in the 1940s and continues today. The first team was composed of Mexican American veterans from World War II who competed against other Mexican teams from the Midwest. While the teams competed in intense games, the tournament itself was a way for the Mexican immigrant community to come together and socialize as well as raise funds. Other institutions such as the Catholic Church have helped promote sports in South Omaha.
Robert Navarro and the Chicano Awareness Center
The Rev. Robert Navarro (pictured in the leather jacket) helped found the Chicano Awareness Center in 1971. The center helped Mexican Americans become a part of the Chicano movement that was gaining attention across the United States. Chicanos gained confidence in their culture, and rallied together against discrimination. They had access to resources, which helped members of the community find jobs, encouraging bilingualism within the community. Today the Chicano Awareness Center remains in South Omaha, and is now called the Latino Center of the Midlands. (Photo on the right courtesy of Reynaldo Cervantes)
This subject area focuses on the Latino community who settled in South Omaha in the early 20th century, drawn by work for the stockyards and railroads. Topics include the role of sports in community building and community pride as well as a means of assimilation and an escape from the hardships of everyday life; the way immigration and racial and ethnic identity shaped businesses; profiles on Latino leaders in business, education, and the military; and the role of social movements in advancing labor rights, improving education, and preserving language.