In a significant cultural event, the Inzunza family launched a photo book titled “Movimiento en la Sangre” on January 10, 2024, at the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park, San Diego. This collection features over 200 photographs taken by Nick Inzunza, a prominent figure in the Chicano movement and a dedicated educator, who captured a pivotal era from 1971 to 1974.
The Inzunza family is often referred to as the Chicano Kennedys of San Diego County, known for their contributions as educators, doctors, athletes, and community leaders. Political engagement has been a cornerstone of their legacy, with family members serving on city councils in National City, San Diego, and Chula Vista, as well as various school boards and water districts since the 1970s.
“Movimiento en la Sangre” showcases a vital period in the Chicano movement, highlighting the transition of activists into political roles to advocate for change. The photographs include significant moments that contributed to the establishment of Chicano Park, a renowned collection of murals located under the Coronado Bridge in Barrio Logan. Iconic figures such as Cesar Chavez, Bert Corona, and Reies López Tijerina are featured, alongside images documenting protests and gatherings across California.
In addition to the historical photographs, the book incorporates reflections from Nick Inzunza’s life, including letters and essays that provide context to the images. One poignant excerpt reveals his response to a teacher’s objection to a Mexican Christmas event, stating, “The Mexican culture which is all around us can no longer be denied… We as human beings can no longer ignore a culture that is indigenous to this land.”
The journey of creating this book is particularly remarkable, as it stems from a collection of nearly 1,800 undeveloped photographs that Nick stored for decades. After his passing in 2012, his family discovered the film rolls and sought to bring his vision to life. With the encouragement of William Nericcio, a professor at San Diego State University, the family collaborated on the publication, which aims to fill gaps in the historical narrative surrounding Latino contributions to civil rights.
At the launch event, Ralph Inzunza, Nick’s nephew and one of the book’s co-authors, recalled the family’s efforts to process the photographs. He emphasized the importance of remembering those who fought for the Chicano community, noting, “It is history, and it is not… because it’s alive.” Ralph himself has had a complicated public life, having served on the San Diego city council and faced legal challenges in the past, but he has since rebuilt his reputation as a political consultant and author.
The release of “Movimiento en la Sangre” not only commemorates the Inzunza family’s legacy but also shines a light on the broader struggle for representation and civil rights among the Latino community in Southern California. This book serves as a significant addition to the historical record, ensuring that the voices and experiences of the Chicano movement are not forgotten.
