Tulsa World: Book tells Tulsa's Hispanic history

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Book tells Tulsa's Hispanic history
The volume is available from Tulsa libraries.

By DEON HAMPTON World Staff Writer
Published: 9/25/2008 2:12 AM
Last Modified: 9/25/2008 10:58 AM

The volume is available from Tulsa libraries.

A book featuring compelling first-hand accounts of area Hispanics migrating to Tulsa was unveiled Wednesday during the Greater Tulsa Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's monthly luncheon.

Yolanda Charney, a guest panelist, said the book — "Latinos Presentes!" — was inspired by a Tulsa World sports story on Morey Villareal, a former Hispanic coach at Rogers High School. Michael M. Smith, a history professor at Oklahoma State University, and 40 other Hispanic writers contributed to the book.

Hispanics were here during statehood, and their untold stories make this a great book, Charney said during the luncheon at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. One story tells about the life of a Cuban woman who left behind her family to relocate to the Tulsa area, she said.

Tina Peña, also a guest panelist, said readers can learn about the contributions Hispanics made in Oklahoma.

Judy Randle, who edited the book, said, "What I enjoyed most was learning about Tulsa."

A seven-minute video about the history of Hispanics in Tulsa also was viewed during the luncheon. The book took nearly two years and $20,000 in donations to complete. The paperbacks aren't for sale but are available for checkout through the Tulsa City-County Library.

Wednesday's discussion of "Latinos Presentes!" is one of several events held to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

Deon Hampton 581-8413
deon.hampton@tulsaworld.com By DEON HAMPTON World Staff Writer

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