Chicano Movement

Re “The Chicano Movement: More Nostalgia Than Reality,” Opinion, Sept. 17:

In their fervor to “melt” into the caldron of the mythical “pot,” David E. Hayes- Bautista and Gregory Rodriguez dismiss the Chicano movement as a “minority movement,” out of gas, in the throes of non-being. They fail to realize that the singular reason they are writing for The Times is the Chicano movement.

Many persons who were involved in the Movimiento were not Chicanos: They were opportunists willing to advance their cause, careers and ambitions on the backs of individuals willing to “agitate” for social/economic/educational/political change which has borne fruit for many, including them.

Without the Chicano movement, my two hijas would not have attended and graduated from the University of Notre Dame, nor my youngest daughter attend and graduate from Georgetown University. Likewise, Chicanos on the faculty at Cornell University wouldn’t be teaching in the literature and biology departments if not for Chicano students demanding their hiring. And the Cesar Chavez Center planned for UCLA would still be nostalgically debated were it not for the action of Chicano students and community supporters prodding Chancellor Charles Young. Current commission appointments by Mayor Richard Riordan reflect his recognition of the Chicano Movement.

Pues, Mr. Hayes-Bautista and Mr. Rodriguez, when next cashing your employer’s warrant, thank Chicanismo, not nostalgia.

PETER VALENTIN FERNANDEZ

Wilmington