Deported, not ‘repatriated’

Re “First Latina treasurer paved path,” obituary, Jan. 23

Romana Acosta Bañuelos, the U.S. treasurer from 1971-74, accomplished great things while overcoming insurmountable obstacles.

It is historically incorrect, however, to state that she was “one of the thousands who left the country” during the mass “repatriation” of Mexicans that took place between 1929 and 1936. That statement implies that she left of her own free will, when in reality she was a victim of the unconstitutional deportation of more than 1 million people of Mexican descent.

People who walk through the historical exhibits at LA Plaza are often surprised to learn that an estimated 60% of those deported against their will were American citizens. To refer to this process as “repatriation” is inaccurate since she and others did not return to Mexico of their own choosing, but instead were deported in violation of their Constitutional rights as U.S. citizens. This was one of the most shameful and least understood chapters of American history.

History often repeats itself, which is why it is important to acknowledge the many contributions Mexican Americans have made to this country. Acosta Bañuelos may have been a woman of many firsts, but it is now up to us to ensure she is not the last.

John Echeveste

Los Angeles The writer is chief executive of LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes.