Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales

As young Chicano activist in Stockton,California in the early 70s, Corky Gonzales visits to the University of the Pacific inspired many of us in so many ways to keep pushing forward venga lo que venga y pasa lo que pasa. We will never forget him.

My sincere condolences to Maestro Rudolfo Corky Gonzales' familia. He inspired and enlightened me to struggle for justice and dignity. I had the honour of meeting him in Albuquerque, New Mexico during the summer of 1967 where I was training as a VISTA Volunteer. The Chicano Movement was growing from an acorn to a mighty oak and his contributions to the movimiento will never be forgotten. "I Am Joaquin" is the legacy he leaves not only to Chicanos but to the world as a living testimony to...

To the family of Corky: I am honored to have been a part of a movement that touched so many lives. I spent many evenings at the Crusade, gleaning knowledge not just of my people, but of politics, and social injustice. Like so many first generation Chicanos, I had accepted my lot in life, never daring to dream the “American dream”, because that dream was not meant for me. However, Corky created a passion in me to learn, and to succeed, not on the backs of my people, but at their side. He...