Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
John J. Valadez pushes for the documentation of Latino/ Chicano history on film The national screening of The Longoria Affair heightens awareness of civil rights in the 1950s " Looking a little worn from traveling across the country, writer/director/producer John J. Valadez shares that he has screened the nationally acclaimed and award winning documentary film The Longoria Affair to over 100 locations across the U.S. But, his upbeat personality and extensive knowledge of Latino/Chicano history leaves audiences in aw, especially Latino college students. The screening of The Longoria Affair and Mr. Valadez’ visit was hosted by The American GI Forum of California in concert with POP-9 Communications. It served as a fundraiser for the GI Forum’ s Civil Rights Legal Defense fund, which is currently involved in a couple of cases affecting veterans. “The rights of Veterans, young and old are being challenged regularly in modern times,” says Arnulfo Hernandez, Civil Rights Legal Counsel for the AGIF of California. “Many veterans, for example, today will get titanium prosthetics if they were injured in the newer conflicts, yet older veterans are stuck with the heavier and more archaic prosthetics. This is not just.” Valadez, whose credits include “La Onda Chicana” of PBS’ Latin Music USA, is now eyeing a project that will require much support. “I’m trying to raise at least $3000 to shoot some footage that tells the incredible story of the Valenzuela brothers,” says Valadez. “These are brothers who are facing deportation even though 6
they served honorably in Vietnam. It is a problem that all Americans need to be made aware of and this film will accomplish that.” For more information go to page 10 of this Vida de Oro issue. - Vida