Sylvia Méndez

Some civil rights figures are household names, while others struggle to get their stories told. This biography details the life and activism of Sylvia Mendez, who helped desegregate California schools in the 1940s in the landmark federal case, Mendez v. Westminster. Latino students, scholars of social justice, and anyone who is inspired by underdog stories will find this highly engaging account of change compelling and informative, including its helpful timeline and historical imagery. Students will be engaged and inspired by a story that has gotten its due as more than a mere historical footnote.