Harsh measures and fond recollections blend at the latest national landmark honoring Latino culture

In Marfa, Texas, Mexican and Mexican-American children were educated in a building described as barracks in the second half of the 20th century. They faced challenges such as receiving secondhand textbooks and being punished for speaking Spanish instead of English due to segregation by law and practice. Despite these hardships, alumni recently gathered to celebrate the Blackwell School’s recognition as the newest national park at the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month.

During the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees visited the original schoolhouse and a smaller building that served as the band hall. Various exhibits showcased the impact of the school, which exemplified the racially divided education system prevalent in the country from 1889 to 1965. The event featured a mariachi band, ballet folklórico performance, and traditional border music, with attendees sharing their memories of the Blackwell School.

Following efforts by former students and allies, the Blackwell School was preserved from demolition by the Marfa Independent School District. Through fundraising and advocacy, the school was eventually designated a national historic site, recognizing its significance in modern Latino history. The school’s preservation is seen as a testament to the resilience and triumph of the Latino community over adversity.

The Blackwell School’s journey is a reminder of America’s complex path towards equality and justice, according to Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. With the school now part of the National Park system, it joins only a few sites that recount modern Latino history, emphasizing the Latino community’s contributions to the nation’s shared history.

Despite the negative aspects associated with the segregated education system and discouragement of the Spanish language, Blackwell alumni fondly remember their teachers, friends, and moments of laughter. Memories of kind gestures and support from teachers prevail, highlighting the caring atmosphere at the school.

The preservation of the Blackwell School as a national park site holds special significance for alumni like Tony Cano, who hopes that future generations will learn about their heritage by walking through the historic building. Through efforts to save the school and establish it as a national park, the Blackwell School stands as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and success for the Latino community.