The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE OF ANSELMO F. ARELLANO
______
HON. TERESA LEGER FERNANDEZ
of new mexico
in the house of representatives
Thursday, December 23, 2021
Ms. LEGER FERNANDEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Anselmo ``Chemo'' F. Arellano. As a historian, educator, author, and activist, Anselmo used his talents to preserve New Mexico's rich culture and history. In Northern New Mexico, he was what we call a seeker of el oro del barrio--the knowledge which is the gold of our community.
Anselmo was born on April 27, 1944, in Springer, New Mexico. His family instilled in him a love for his heritage and culture which remained with him throughout his life. Anselmo spent many years as a postsecondary educator in New Mexico. His passion for learning and sharing his knowledge was apparent to those who had the opportunity to meet and learn from him.
Anselmo's career in education began at Fresno State University at the age of 25, where he taught courses in ethnic studies and directed a program for first-generation minority college students. While working at Fresno State, he also volunteered for the United Farmworkers Organizing Committee.
As a distinguished Ford Foundation Fellow, Anselmo received his Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of New Mexico in 1990. He used his education to preserve the history, culture, and traditions of Northern New Mexico and taught others to do the same. Anselmo was nationally recognized for his work and was selected as a featured historian by the Smithsonian Institute for its New Mexico exhibit.
Like many Nuevo Mexicanos, Anselmo knew the power of community and that acequia es comunidad. That's why he worked to secure land and water rights for New Mexicans across the state. Understanding the hardships that his community faced, Anselmo also worked to improve access to education, housing, and health care. He served on boards for numerous community organizations and institutions including the National Hispanic Cultural Center.
On behalf of Nuevo Mexico's, Third District, I am honored to recognize the extraordinary life of Anselmo ``Chemo'' F. Arellano--a humble and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. I hope that his legacy will be carried on by everyone he shared his knowledge with and by those who knew and loved him.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 220
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