Carmen Lomas Garza - Peace

In the chapter called “Politics and Life in Tejas: From Tejana to Chicana”, Cortez begins with Garza’s childhood. Garza grew up in Kingsville, Texas where institutional racism greatly affected Mexican Americans in their education, work, and where they lived. When Garza faced discrimination in school, her family provided the support she needed to keep going and she developed a sense of social justice. While in high school, Garza decided to become an artist and ultimately went to Texas A&I University. While there, she joined MAYO and was selected to organize MAYO’s first art exhibition where she was able to exhibit her artwork. One of the images she displayed is called Peace which was made in 1967 on linoleum block print and measuring 9 x 9 inches. The image is of two figures reaching out to a dove with an olive branch while a third person is slowly picking themselves up from the ground. This image is “…a response to domestic and international conflicts, this work celebrates the struggle and determination for peace…” (Cortez 17). It was through images like this that Garza realized she could bring her message to a wider audience. Peace made me feel like not giving up and picking myself up when I am down.