From the archives: A look back at key news stories in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we dug into the Lansing State Journal archives to revisit coverage of some important moments for Hispanic and Latinx communities across Greater Lansing.
From 1975 to 2022, Lansing saw various cultural and political leaders inspire change — including a statewide commission, a new street name and more. Here are six key moments from our archives.
'Commission on Spanish-Speaking Affairs' created in 1975
In 1975, Gov. William G. Milliken created the Commission on Spanish-Speaking Affairs, which was intended to “identify problems of the Spanish-speaking and come up with solutions.”
Bilingual newspaper for Lansing's Spanish speakers
For two decades, a bilingual newspaper circulated in the Lansing area. El Renacimiento (which translates to "The Renaissance" in English), published from about 1970-90. The LSJ marked its 15th anniversary celebration in 1984.
César Chávez leaves his mark on Lansing
In 1985, César Chávez visited Lansing’s Cristo Rey Community Center and urged residents to continue boycotting grapes, a campaign that had already been going on for a year at the time. During his time in Lansing Chávez shared messages in support of improving conditions for farm workers, was made an “honorary Michiganian” and received support from various Lansing organizations.
Tony Benavides takes the mantle as mayor
Tony Benavides, a prominent community member and organizer in Lansing, was appointed mayor in 2003, becoming Lansing's first Latino mayor and, to this day, remaining the only person of color to serve in this role.
Benavides served as mayor through 2005, and remained a strong community figure well after his time in office. He died at the age of 84 in April.
See more:Tony Benavides, Lansing's first Latino mayor, through the years
Renaming a street for Chávez
The Lansing for César E. Chávez Committee originally campaigned in the 1990s to rename part of Grand Avenue César E. Chávez Avenue in honor of his impact nationally and in Lansing.
Five years ago, in October 2017, a plan was accepted by Lansing City Council to instead rename a portion of Grand River Avenue through the heart of Old Town, which historically had been the center of Greater Lansing's Hispanic and Latinx communities. The new street signs were unveiled in January 2018.
Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan evolves
The original Commission on Spanish-Speaking Affairs evolved into the Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan in 2010. During Hispanic Heritage Month this year, the commission co-hosted a celebration of Mexican Independence Day at Lansing’s City Hall.
Read more: Lansing celebrates Mexico's Independence, Hispanic Heritage Month
Related:In Lansing's changed Old Town neighborhood, Latinos imagine a new future
Do you have thoughts for other important moments in Lansing's Hispanic history? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page or by emailing LSJ-EAs@lsj.com.
Jack Moreland is a news assistant at the Lansing State Journal. Contact him at jmoreland@lsj.com or 517.267.0479. Follow him on Twitter @JackMoreland02.
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: A look back at Hispanic & Latino History in Lansing
