The National Museum of the American Latino

One of Jesús Manuel Mena Garza's photos on exhibit next week at the Ronald Reagan Building promoting the National Museum of the American Latino. See you there.

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Jesús Manuel Mena Garza will exhibit his photographs and speak at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute gathering in Washington D.C. on Sept. 12, 2012. Garza will clarify CHCI’s work with the Smithsonian Latino Center and its efforts to celebrate the cultural richness and diversity of the Latino community. The photographer will underline the need for a physical home on the National Mall for a Museum of the Latino. The photographs on display at the Ronald Reagan Building were captured from 1970 to 1975. During this period, Garza took intimate photographs of Chicano icons César E. Chávez, Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzáles and others. The photographs provide a retrospective glimpse from the unique perspective of the photojournalist and activist. Midwestern State University Professor Dr. Ann Marie Leimer adds, “During the past decades, Garza has extensively published and exhibited several documentary photographic series. The Chicano Photographer series explores important aspects of the American experience, historic events and cultural practices often marginalized by the dominant culture.” Photographs from the series are in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution, various universities and have been published in journals and books. The Chicano Photographer series and press kit can be accessed at Garza’s website, www.jmmgarza.com. Contact: Ann Marie Leimer, Ph.D., (940) 397-4264, ann.leimer@mwsu.edu

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