Chicano Federation of San Diego County

Established in 1968 by a group of civil rights activists and obtaining non-profit status in 1969, the Chicano Federation began as an organization dedicated to promoting Latino culture and combating negative Latino stereotypes. The organization also endorsed voter registration and community activism. During the 1970s, the Federation began offering social services, providing referrals, and fighting discriminatory employment practices. By the early 1980s, the Federation had opened an administration building in Sherman Heights, expanded its social services to include senior services and a legal clinic, and created the Leadership Training Institute. The Federation also held conferences regarding health, education, and other topics relevant to the Latino community. Under the leadership of Federation Director Ray Uteza, the 1990s saw a dramatic increase in funding for the Federation. The additional money helped the Federation to expand geographically, offer affordable housing, and create a subsidized childcare program. In addition, the Federation persisted in promoting social justice and self-sufficiency. Today, the Chicano Federation continues to provide social services, including senior services, affordable housing, childcare, referrals, advocacy programs, and social activities.

From the description of Chicano Federation of San Diego County Records, 1968-1980 1973-1978. (San Diego State University Library). WorldCat record id: 656585035

Historical Note

Established in 1968 by a group of civil rights activists and obtaining non-profit status in 1969, the Chicano Federation began as an organization dedicated to promoting Latino culture and combating negative Latino stereotypes. The organization also endorsed voter registration and community activism. During the 1970s, the Federation began offering social services, providing referrals, and fighting discriminatory employment practices. By the early 1980s, the Federation had opened an administration building in Sherman Heights, expanded its social services to include senior services and a legal clinic, and created the Leadership Training Institute. The Federation also held conferences regarding health, education, and other topics relevant to the Latino community.

Under the leadership of Federation Director Ray Uteza, the 1990s saw a dramatic increase in funding for the Federation. The additional money helped the Federation to expand geographically, offer affordable housing, and create a subsidized childcare program. In addition, the Federation persisted in promoting social justice and self-sufficiency. Today, the Chicano Federation continues to provide social services, including senior services, affordable housing, childcare, referrals, advocacy programs, and social activities.

From the guide to the Chicano Federation of San Diego County Records, 1968-1980, 1973-1979, (Special Collections & University Archives: Finding Aid Database)