Historical Marker #1 - Cheston L. Health School

   I'd like to to start off by saying it was surprisingly difficult to take a selfie with the marker. We tried to capture the full marker with both of us, but the marker is too tall!

Picture taken: 4/15/14

   After reading the marker I felt that I wish this information had been taught to me earlier, I think it is kind of depriving not knowing my own city's history. The marker is significant because it provides insight one of the many Mexican American triumphs in our local history. I think the marker also identifies prominent historical figures in Corpus Christi, I mean now I know where the elementary school Rose Shaw gets their name from, and it also mentions Cheston L. who is another important figure. Going back to what I stated earlier, I am curious about the topic, and I feel like I should have already known about such important information concerning our local history.  

LGBT History

   My topic is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) history. I want to expose the discrimination that the community has faced but I also want to examine our triumphs as well. I am thinking the most logical place to start is by asking local organizations such as the Gay & Straight Alliance at Del Mar, there might be another one but I am not too sure. Another start I have thought of might be far fetched but I think the "gay" bars are also a valuable place to look into, although I do not know how to go about contacting the owners. I think gay bars will allow me to see the emergence of LGBT culture within Corpus Christi, but at the same time I know I might be limited as to how I get the information considering I am a minor.
   I chose my topic because it is something I am passionate about. I feel like some individuals think I chose the topic because I am homosexual and while that is partially true I really chose the topic because I am also a strong advocate for civil rights not just for the LGBT community but also other minorities as well, so I think sharing the story will kind of open peoples eyes to the harsh discrimination that the LGBT community has faced and still faces today.
    A couple of months ago we talked civil rights activist Cesar Chaves, and Dr.Hector P Garcia, which greatly influenced me to start thinking about civil rights activist for the LGBT community, and while Mr. Martinez's dad always questions "what about the Mexicans?" I am left questioning "what about the LGBT community?". Civil rights was the topic of discussion a couple of months ago and I feel like the LGBT community is worthy of being included when we discuss concepts that concern civil rights.
   To conclude while I am enthusiastic for this project, I am also worried about that there might be a lack of information about the topic.