Award-winning author Duncan Tonatiuh brings to life the story of a Mexican-American war hero
Jos. de la Luz S.enz (1888-1953)-or Luz-believed in fighting for what
was right. Although he was born in the United States, he and his family
experienced prejudice because of their Mexican heritage. When World War I
broke out, Luz volunteered to join the fight. Because of his ability to
quickly learn languages, he became part of the Intelligence Office in
Europe. However, despite his hard work and intellect, Luz often didn't
receive credit for his contributions. Upon his return to the US, he
joined other Mexican-Americans whom he had met in the army to fight for
equality. His contribution, along with others, ultimately led to the
creation of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), which
is the oldest Latino civil rights organization. Soldier for Equality is
based in part on Luz's diary during the war. It includes a biography of
Luz's later years, an author's note, a timeline, a bibliography, and an
index.
The incredible story of one man’s fight for Mexican American civil rights, from award-winning picture book creator Duncan Tonatiuh.
Pura Belpré Award Author Honor Book * Association of Library Service to Children Notable Children's Book
Using his signature illustration style and first-person diary entries, Duncan Tonatiuh tells the inspiring story of a Mexican American war hero and his fight for equality.
José de la Luz Sáenz (Luz) believed in fighting for what was right. Though born in the United States, Luz often faced prejudice because of his Mexican heritage. Determined to help his community, even in the face of discrimination, he taught school—children during the day and adults in the evenings.
When World War I broke out, Luz joined the army, as did many others. His ability to quickly learn languages made him an invaluable member of the Intelligence Office in Europe.
However, Luz found that prejudice followed him even to war, and despite his efforts, he often didn’t receive credit for his contributions. Upon returning home to Texas, he joined with other Mexican American veterans to create the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), which today is the largest and oldest Latinx civil rights organization.
