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PUENTE, Carlos & Maria Esther

Notable infoChicano Political Activists

Oral Histories

OH 1949

Fort Worth-based Chicano political activists. Discussion of the Raza Unida Party in Tarrant County and throughout Texas; efforts to improve the economic, social and political aspects of the Chicano community. Carlos Puente’s service on Fort Worth City Council. Roadblocks Mexican-Americans faced in campaigning and running for political office, city council and school board, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. Challenges of helping Hispanics become registered voters, educated about candidates and consistently come out and vote. Dealing with the apathy toward voting by Hispanics in the Fort Worth area. Discussions of various political candidates. Newspaper El Reporter’s impact within voting community. Challenges facing Fort Worth.