Victor Garza 1937 - 2024
Victor Garza is a local and statewide icon and legend for the Latino and Chicano communities. He founded La Raza Roundtable in 1988 and was a prominent leader in San José and across California for more than sixty years.
Victor was born in Eagle Pass, Texas on July 4, 1937 and moved to California in 1960. He was a farmworker in his youth before joining the U.S. Navy at 18. He attended San José State University with the goal of serving the public, and was always active and organizing in the community. He won several awards as manager for the County of Santa Clara Veterans Services. He also founded several mentorship programs at local schools and colleges, and was the first Latino elected to the Berryessa School District Board where he faced down racism in the classrooms. He is remembered for his tenacity and determination to help others and lift up Latino and Chicano families. Victor Garza was a champion for human rights, and we are honored to recognize his service and contributions.
"As my colleagues have already mentioned, we mourn the loss of Victor Garza, an icon and legend for the Latino, Chicano Community and beyond.
He was a dear friend, and he devoted his life to creating a better and more just community for Latinos, students, veterans, and all residents of not just Santa Clara County, to even the Central Valley and Fresno. In 2012 when I decided to run against a not so great member of Congress, Victor was my biggest supporter, introducing to his friends and connections.
Victor is a true hero and advocate for the Latino community and in the words of Victor Garza, 'I am no rubber stamp, if it's not good for our community I will not support it.'
I last saw Victor a month ago, and despite his health condition, he’s still thanking me for what we are doing at the County to protect the most vulnerable. We express our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest In Peace, y que viva Victor Garza."
-Supervisor Otto Lee, June 18, 2024
La Raza Roundtable [LINK]
Victor Garza remembered as “giant” force for human rights in Santa Clara County - Mercury News [LINK]
Silicon Valley Latino icon Victor Garza leaves a lasting legacy - San José Spotlight [LINK]
Statement From Senator Cortese On The Passing Of Victor Garza [LINK]
