Mexican-American hero Dr. Hector P. Garcia fought against poll taxes in Texas and would be disgusted in GOP’s poll tax ideas
Wednesday, July 11th, 2012
Hector P Garcia the Mexican-American hero / founder of the American GI FORUM fought poll taxes in Texas.
Dr. Hector P. Garcia was the founder of the American GI Forum in Texas. He is our hero because he fought on behalf of the Mexican Americans. He worked for improved health conditions for children in Texas’s segregated schools, raised funds to argue legal cases, campaigned against the poll tax, and lobbied for fair labor practices.
Over time, these efforts succeeded. Movie theaters, restaurants, and hotels were open to Mexican Americans by the end of the 1950s, with beauty salons and barbershops following in the 1960s. Desegregation did not reach Texas cemeteries and swimming pools until the 1970s.
Now we see the Republican Party implementing poll taxes again to quash the elderly, the disabled and minority vote. Poll taxes do not just affect the African-American vote — it also affects the Mexican-American vote, too.
Rise up, Tejanos, Chicanos, Mexicanos! Fight against the poll taxes now and let your voice be heard on November 6, 2012! Vote against all politicians who support poll taxes and continue the fight Dr. Garcia fought!
