| In 1967, young Chicanas and Chicanos from the barrios of East Los Angeles came together and established the Brown Berets in order to address issues that were impacting their communities negatively. The Brown Berets fought against police harassment, inadequate public schools and education, the lack of political representation and the Vietnam War draft. The Brown Berets became a symbol of resistance and hope within the Chicana and Chicano community and flourished throughout the barrios of Aztlan. Influenced by the legacy of this organization and similar conditions that existed in the 60s, a group of Watsonville students decided to activate their Brown Berets chapter in 1994. Incorporating indigenous spirituality and international liberation struggles, the Watsonville Brown Berets are one of the most active local youth organizations fighting for progressive change and barrio peace. |
