Vela, Seferino

Civic leader and political campaign manager. Known as Chefe Vela, full name Seferino Salais Vela. Raised in Kenedy, Texas, where he served as president of LULAC Council #64. Became LULAC District Organizer in 1939. Moved to San Antonio in 1942. Supported many Democratic candidates for office, including Dan Moody, Gerald Mann, Maury Maverick, Ralph Yarborough, and Henry Cisneros by making radio speeches and giving talks in both English and Spanish, appealing to Mexican American voters.

From the guide to the Seferino Vela Papers BENSON-MS VELA, SEFERINO. 24158618., 1935-1981, (Benson Latin American Collection, The University of Texas at Austin)