San Jose activists invoke Chicano Moratorium history in opposition to proposed ICE facility

FOR MORE THAN FIVE DECADES, an anti-war protest known as the Chicano Moratorium has remained a touchstone for activists who fought for greater recognition, equality and an end to discrimination against their community. This weekend, San Jose organizers will once again bring that history to the city while drawing attention to the federal detention of immigrants in the South Bay.

The 56th Chicano Moratorium commemoration will take place Saturday at Backesto Park from 3 p.m. to sunset, marking the first time organizers have convened at the park. The gathering is organized by Community Service Organization San Jose and will feature music, cultural performances, vendors and resource tables. Ramon J. Martinez, secretary of the La Raza Historical Society of Santa Clara Valley, who participated in the original protest in 1970, is the keynote speaker.