It’s often stated that if you don’t know your history, you’ll be doomed to repeat it. Oliver Rosales is not only making sure that doesn’t happen but also shining light on the historical changes and strengths of the community during the civil rights era. In his book, “Civil Rights in Bakersfield,” he uncovers the untold stories of local activism that shaped the social justice landscape in this Central Valley city beyond the farm worker movement.
Through meticulous research and personal insights, Rosales brings to light the vibrant coalition of Chicano, black, and other community activists who fought for civil rights, challenging the perception that such movements were confined to larger urban centers.
In his book, Rosales examines the fight for civil rights reform in the Central Valley, highlighting struggles for fair housing, school integration, public health, media representation, and increased political representation for Black and Brown communities. By delving into the history of multiracial activism, Rosales sheds light on the challenges faced by activists in community organizing and how the legacy of coalition building continues to influence current activist efforts in the Central Valley.
During his research, Rosales discovered numerous surprising and lesser-known stories. One significant topic that he only briefly touches on is the history of police brutality, which he finds fascinating and ripe for further exploration.
Additionally, Rosales highlights the untapped potential in the Bakersfield City School District’s board meeting minutes, which document segregation practices prior to 1950. He emphasizes the challenges in accessing these records, suggesting that legal measures might be necessary. Rosales went on to state that his book is trying to create a landscape for future research and hopes that future researchers will delve into Bakersfield’s segregation history, as it promises to be a goldmine for understanding the city’s racial dynamics.
Much of the research for “Civil Rights in Bakersfield” was conducted during Oliver Rosales’s dissertation, with a significant source being a newsletter collection from the late Jack Brigham. Brigham, a long-time professor at Bakersfield College, was deeply involved in activism, including teaching at a segregated black school and participating in the Kern Council for Civic Unity (KCCU). His newsletter collection from the 1960s and 70s provided invaluable insights into the Civic Unity Movement in Bakersfield, a local chapter that persisted long after it was thought to have faded in California.
“Ultimately, the book is about black and brown people working in concert and coalition with their white allies. I think at its core, that’s what it is. It’s also a book about place and space, specifically Southeast Bakersfield and segregation. The discovery of that newsletter collection really opened up the doors for research to continue,” Rosales said.
When asked about the role local organizations had in advancing civil rights in Bakersfield, Rosales stated that the KCCU stood out as a key coalition group. The KCCU included active participation from the Community Service Organization (CSO), where Cesar Chavez worked for ten years before founding the United Farm Workers. The Bakersfield chapter of the CSO, founded by Juan and Margaret Govea, was a significant civil rights group. Their daughter, Jessica Govea, later served on the executive board of the United Farm Workers.
The KCCU’s strength lay in its coalition nature, bringing together diverse groups such as the Negro Minister Association, lawyers, doctors, and members of the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA).
“That’s what made, I think, the KCCU effective. It was able to pull together groups that were active in Bakersfield civil rights from the 1960s through the 1970s. The KCCU was an attempt to pull together urban and rural, black and brown in coalition, in common cause,” shared Rosales. “They’re like the hero of the book.”
Rosales emphasizes that building such coalitions was challenging due to the normative segregation of black and brown communities. Despite these difficulties, the KCCU’s efforts significantly shaped Bakersfield’s civil rights movement, influencing modern initiatives like magnet programs in schools. These programs, aimed at attracting diverse enrollments, are rooted in the civil rights struggle, although many who benefit from them today may not recognize this legacy.
“Civil Rights in Bakersfield” reflects the complexity and messiness of activism. Rather than following a linear narrative, the book captures the chaotic nature of civil rights work, highlighting the extensive efforts involved, the successes and failures, and the ongoing opportunities for new activism. This approach aims to provide a realistic portrayal of the scale and intricacies of the work done in Bakersfield.
To build on the work of past civil rights activists in Bakersfield, Oliver Rosales believes it’s crucial to recognize and understand the struggles and efforts involved. He emphasizes the importance of public recognition, such as establishing markers and acknowledging historic landmarks.
“Otherwise it’s just like a whitewashing of the past,” Rosales said, highlighting the need for visible reminders of civil rights history.
He also mentioned efforts by individuals like Jason Cater, Economic and Community Development Manager for the City of Bakersfield, who has shown interest in the old Community Service Organization (CSO) building. Rosales stressed that sharing historical records is essential, as opposed to burying them, to ensure these stories are owned and remembered by the community.
Rosales also advocated for a more inclusive narrative, recognizing various activists beyond well-known figures like Dolores Huerta, prominent labor leader and civil rights activist.
“Diversifying the narrative is what my hope would [be] the book would help toward a little bit,” he stated, aiming to broaden the scope of recognized civil rights contributions in Bakersfield.
With this book, Oliver Rosales hopes to offer a fresh perspective on Bakersfield’s history. He encourages readers to delve into the book to discover new stories beyond the typical narratives of farmers, Okies, and country music.
“It’s a people’s history, a history of southeast Bakersfield especially, focusing on urban, rural, Black, and Brown coalitions,” Rosales explained.
The book aims to push the boundaries of existing narratives about the region, expanding the understanding of Bakersfield’s diverse and rich civil rights history. He is eager to engage with readers through book talks and looks forward to their reactions, aiming to broaden the limited perception of Bakersfield.
