From Protest to Recognition: An Auto-Testimonio of Chicano Park’s National Historic Landmark Nomination Process

This paper reflects on the 2015 process of nominating Chicano Park, in San Diego’s Barrio Logan, to be in the National Historic Landmark Program. I offer a testimonio of the cultural and political dimensions involved in co-authoring the nomination and highlight Chicano Park’s foundational story, stemming from Chicano Civil Rights activism and complex cultural politics in 1970. I also demonstrate how the National Historic Landmark nomination has provided avenues for political and cultural representation for the Chicanx population of San Diego.