Bernal, Joe, 1927-

Educator and elected official. Born Mar. 1, 1927, in San Antonio, Texas; attended Trinity Univ. (B.A., 1950) and Our Lady of the Lake College (M.Ed., 1956) in San Antonio, and the University of Texas at Austin (Ph.D. 1978). Married Mary Esther Martinez in 1956. Elected to Texas House of Representatives in 1964, to Texas Senate in 1966, where he served until 1971. Known as a liberal Democrat who espoused the interests of minorities, the elderly, and the disadvantaged, Bernal also taught in the public schools for 13 years, and worked as a social worker and community activist. Served on the board of directors of MALDEF, on the Democratic National Committee, and as regional director of ACTION, a federal agency which coordinated volunteer activities. Co-authored books on the Texas Rangers and on bilingual education.

From the guide to the Joe J. Bernal Papers 23665826., 1942-1981, (Benson Latin American Collection, The University of Texas at Austin)

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