Description
Margaret Cruz was active professionally with the Mexican American Political Association and the Margaret Cruz Latina Breast
Cancer Foundation (MCLBCF). She was a lawyer, businesswoman, political activist and educator. She served on numerous boards
of civic organizations, particularly in San Francisco's mission district.
Background
Born in Nogales, Arizona in 1920, Margaret Cruz (nee Herrera) had her birth registered in Sonora, Mexico, and was naturalized
as a United States citizen when she turned 21. She was very active with the Latin American and Mexican American communities
in San Francisco, especially the Mission District. She co-founded MAPA (Mexican American Political Association) in 1960 and
became its first female president in 1973, and was involved in many related organizations throughout her life, such as LULAC
(League of United Latin American Citizens), the NWPC (National Women's Political Caucus) and the Chicana Caucus. When Cruz
was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1994, she founded the Latina Breast Cancer Foundation to work on improving education and
understanding of breast cancer for Latinas.
Extent
37 Linear Feet
(57 manuscript boxes, 9 cartons, 4 flat boxes)
Restrictions
While Special Collections is the owner of the physical and digital items, permission to examine collection materials is not
an authorization to publish. These materials are made available for use in research, teaching, and private study. Any transmission
or reproduction beyond that allowed by fair use requires permission from the owners of rights, heir(s) or assigns.
Availability
Collection is open for research. Materials must be requested at least 36 hours in advance of intended use.