OLLU Sueltenfuss Library Hosts “Alonso S. Perales: Civil Rights Trailblazer” Exhibit
Feb 23, 2025
The Sueltenfuss Library proudly presents “Alonso S. Perales: Civil Rights Trailblazer,” an exhibition by the Mexican American Civil Rights Institute (MACRI). This exhibit highlights the life and legacy of Alonso S. Perales (1898-1960)—a civil rights lawyer, U.S. diplomat, and public intellectual who played a pivotal yet often overlooked role in American history.
Alongside MACRI’s exhibit, the Sueltenfuss Library also presents:
Legacy in Motion: Creatively Interpreting Alonso Perales’ Legacy for a New Generation
Curated by the library, this showcase features historical photographs alongside creative projects developed by OLLU students reflecting on Perales’ impact on Mexican American civil rights. Highlights include:
- “A Legacy in Linocut” – This exhibit showcases a series of linocut prints created by students in OLLU’s Visual & New Media Arts printmaking course to honor the legacy of Alonso S. Perales. Led by Dr. Suzy González, the works reflect artistic interpretations of Perales’ impact and contributions.
- “A Geographic Timeline: Alonso Perales’ Life-Long Legacy of Justice & Equality” – This interactive, bilingual multimedia presentation, created by students in Dr. Kim Kennedy’s Reading Comprehension course (EDUC), explores key moments in Perales’ lifelong fight for justice and equality.
- “Explorando El Legado de Alonso Perales: Hands-On Learning Activities” – Designed for students, this interactive experience enhances the Perales exhibit with engaging, hands-on activities for school-aged children. It was developed by students in Dr. Kim Kennedy’s undergraduate and graduate education courses.
- “Perales in Photos” – A photographic display curated by The Sueltenfuss Library, featuring images courtesy of Recovering the U.S. Hispanic Literary Heritage, Arte Público Press, University of Houston.
Special Events will be held at the library on Tuesday, March 4th, and Thursday, March 20th. See flyer for details.
Sponsors & Special Thanks: Sueltenfuss Library, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences Worden School of Social Service, Center for Mexican American Studies and Research, Congregation of Divine Providence, OLLU’s Visual & New Media Arts Program, OLLU’s Education Department, Mexican American Civil Rights Institute, Recovering the U.S. Hispanic Literary Heritage, Arte Público Press, University of Houston.
For questions or comments on the Alonso S. Perales exhibit or special events, please contact the library at library@ollusa.edu.