Chicano Studies

My compliments to Marita Hernandez for her article on Chicano studies programs (Part I, April 10). Seldom do we see that kind of serious treatment of the original reasons for Chicano studies and its subsequent importance to Chicanos and the rest of society.

In this stubborn time of “specialists,” the article looks at the multidisciplinary nature of Chicano studies and captures the essence of our aim: whatever professions or specialties Chicanos choose, each must be followed by a hyphen and “activist.” The disproportionately low influence afforded by the dominant class to our demographic presence and the urgency of the times demand it.

As a Chicano studies graduate (Cal State Northridge, 1974), I would suggest a follow-up piece on Chicano studies graduates: Where are they now? Did Chicano studies help/hinder their professional advancement? Are they better citizens for it? What are their political views now? Has Chicano studies been a continuous influence or was it discarded in the pursuit of career? How involved have they remained?

JOSE L. DE PAZ

La Puente