Victor Garza Santa Clara County Death: La Raza RoundTable founder has died
Santa Clara County:- A man has died today, Thursday morning, the 6th of June 2024. The deceased has been identified as Victor Garza. La Raza RoundTable founder Victor Garza was announced deceased by those affected by his passing. He passed away at the age of 86, according to his personal Facebook page. No cause of death was reported.
Victor Garza was a Santa Clara County Latino community icon. Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley executive director Gabriela Chavez-Lopez said she learned of Garza’s death during a Race Equity Action Leadership Coalition meeting Thursday morning when a community leader mentioned his passing.
Who was Victor Garza?
Victor Garza was born in 1937 in Eagle Pass, Texas. He later moved to California in 1960. Victor started his career in public service in 1986. He played a pivotal role in ensuring anti-discriminatory hiring practices in various institutions in San Jose in 1970s. Victor utilizes his skills learned in the Navy, hires Latino janitors and trains them in welding, offering them better employment opportunities.
He founded La Raza Roundtable, empowering residents to advocate for positive change, and established a mentorship program at Evergreen Valley College to assist struggling Latino students. As the first Latino elected to the Berryessa School District board, he championed the hiring of Latino educators.
Garza’s impact transcended the Latino community, influencing Santa Clara County politics and government. His advocacy for civil liberties, equity, and social justice resonated across East San Jose and the wider county. San Jose Councilmember Peter Ortiz hailed Garza as a champion for immigrants, Latinos, and the working class, highlighting his enduring legacy in community advocacy.
