To the editor: I labored with and studied Richard Alatorre. Like all of us, he was a flawed human being, and he wrote as a lot in his 2016 autobiography. (“Richard Alatorre, pioneering Eastside politician, dies at 81,” obituary, Aug. 13)
Although not the brightest or most articulate bulb in California politics, Alatorre was unquestionably among the many handiest. He was a grasp at making issues occur. He was a person of consequence who made life higher in California — one want solely ask Willie Brown or, if he have been alive, Richard Riordan.
Alatorre was a tough baller, little doubt. However his modus operandi was rooted in a visceral compassion for barrio people like me.
Like Alatorre, I grew up in East Los Angeles and graduated from Garfield Excessive College, infamous in the course of the Sixties for its excessive dropout fee. He functioned as a significant sport changer behind the scenes, in methods supportive of a rising Chicano motion.
After I first met him as a USC political science pupil within the early Seventies, Alatorre rattled me along with his candid sense of political actuality. At the moment, I typically share plenty of “Alatorreisms” with those that knew him finest.
We final talked at his dwelling about two years in the past. The fireplace was gone, however left in his stomach have been reflection and kindness. He was extra like an elder statesman.
I’m grateful to have identified Alatorre, who overcame private issues wrought by barrio life and blessed California along with his many accomplishments.
Ralph C. Carmona, Portland, Maine
The author is a former member of the UC Board of Regents.
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To the editor: I used to be pleasantly shocked to see an article in The Instances on Alatorre instantly after his passing. Think about my dismay and disappointment on studying what was extra of successful piece on a Chicano icon who can not defend himself.
Alatorre was at all times there for these of us who participated within the faculty walkouts, the Chicano Moratorium and numerous different battles in the course of the Chicano motion. He put himself on the road for us.
He introduced delight to our neighborhood by changing into Los Angeles’ first Latino Metropolis Council member of the twentieth century. His doorways have been at all times open to anybody who wanted his assist.
Thanks for all you probably did, Richard.
Martha Pulido, Eagle Rock
