PAC Honors The Legacy Of Social Activist Icon Willie Velasquez

Palo Alto College officially declared September 17 as Willie Velásquez Day with a heartfelt proclamation ceremony led by President Dr. Robert Garza. The event honored the legacy of San Antonio native, social activist, and Southwest Voter Registration Education Project founder Willie Velásquez and highlighted the critical importance of voting in the United States.

Manuel Garza, Field Director of the Southwest Voter Registration Education Project, and Dr. Sarah Gould, Executive Director of the Mexican American Civil Rights Institute, spoke passionately about the profound significance of Velasquez’s legacy in advancing civil rights and voter engagement within the community. Carmen Velásquez-Avila, daughter of Wille Velásquez and PAC Director of Student Advocacy, and Jane Velasquez, wife of Willie Velásquez, were also present to accept the proclamation, which celebrated their family’s ongoing commitment to empowering marginalized voices.

Following the ceremony, Kayla Muzquiz, the 1046 Precinct Coordinator and a dedicated advocate for foster care, facilitated a thought-provoking panel discussion. Joining her was Joseph M. Fonseca Jr., a Political Science Instructor at Palo Alto College, and Rebecca Flores, a prominent farmworker rights activist known for her tireless advocacy. Flores, with her distinguished record of successful campaigns across Texas, Florida, and California, aimed to delve into the transformative power of voter participation. Together, they explored how active engagement in the electoral process can drive significant social change, highlighting the ultimate importance of each vote in shaping a more equitable society.

“Willie Velasquez’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of civic engagement,” shared Dr. Robert Garza, President of Palo Alto College. “It’s an honor to offer this tribute to Willie for his community leadership and tireless efforts to call our community to participate in the democratic process.”

The proclamation and discussion panel also featured a special exhibition of national awards and personal memorabilia from Willie Velasquez, provided by his daughter and Palo Alto College employee, Carmen Velasquez. The displayed items gave guests a personal glimpse into the life of a man whose activism paved the way for increased voter registration and political involvement among minority communities.

To learn more about how to participate in the upcoming election cycle on November 5, 2024, visit alamo.edu/pac/vote.

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"Palo Alto College honors San Antonio activist Willie Velasquez, importance of voting" - WOAI-TV Online, September 17, 2024