Forging Latino Power: The Politics of Inclusion, Backlash, and Resistance

At this defining moment for American democracy, the struggle for Latino political empowerment has much to teach us. Forging Latino Power takes readers from the earliest Latino efforts to improve working and living conditions in diverse California communities to the streets of LA today. Through the personal stories of dozens of elected officials, organizers, and advocates—legends like Dolores Huerta, Antonia Hernández, and Henry Cisneros as well as prominent contemporary figures like Jorge Ramos, Xavier Becerra, Alex Padilla, Eva Longoria, Monica Lozano, Nathalie Rayes, Eric Garcetti, Pete Aguilar, and more—this book brings to life how Latina/o leaders overcame social and civic exclusion to reach some of the highest positions of power. With every historic achievement—organizing farmworkers, furthering immigrants’ rights, mobilizing voters, winning elections, expanding access to healthcare and education—they faced one backlash after another. But as Forging Latino Power shows, their ability to defy repression, defend the most vulnerable members of society, and continue to effect policy change are a model for how constructive resistance can lead to greater inclusion and progress. Their stories offer readers more than inspiration; they prove that leadership can reflect their identities, speak their truths, and champion their futures.