Roberto Maestas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Roberto Maestas
|
|
|---|---|
Roberto Maestas, 2008
|
|
| Personal details | |
| Born | 9 July 1938 New Mexico |
| Died | 22 September 2010 (aged 71) Seattle, Washington |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouses | Janet Tassin, Estela Ortega |
| Occupation | Social activist |
| Known for | Community leader of Seattle |
Roberto Maestas (born July 9, 1938 – died September 22, 2010) was an important American social activist. He worked to make communities better from the 1960s to the 1990s. He was well-known in Seattle, Washington. Maestas helped start a group called the Gang of Four. He also co-founded El Centro de la Raza, a community center.
Contents
Roberto Maestas's Life Story
Maestas was born in a small town in New Mexico. His grandparents raised him. As a young man, he worked as a migrant worker across the Western United States. This means he traveled to different places to find farm work.
Moving to Seattle
In the 1950s, Maestas moved to Seattle. He became a high school teacher at Franklin High School. Later, in 1968, he went to the University of Washington for more studies.
Helping Others Learn English
In the early 1970s, Maestas helped create a program for people to learn English. This was an ESL program at South Seattle College. It helped many people who had recently moved to the area.
Starting El Centro de la Raza
In 1972, the money for the ESL program was suddenly stopped. Maestas and other activists decided to take action. They moved into an empty school building in Seattle's Beacon Hill neighborhood. This act of protest led to the creation of El Centro de la Raza. It became a very important community center.
Remembering Roberto Maestas
Roberto Maestas is remembered for his dedication to helping people. He worked hard to make sure everyone had a fair chance.
Honoring His Legacy
On April 25, 2011, the Seattle City Council voted to honor him. They decided to rename a street near El Centro de la Raza. This street is now called South Roberto Maestas Festival Street. It is a lasting tribute to his work.
