Embedded Files
Cruz Reynoso was born on May 2, 1931 in Brea, California. Early in his life, he expressed an interest in history and political activities. According to him, he pursued the law because he realized at an early age that resources to protect and ensure civil rights were not available for people like his parents. His "justice bone" was touched and he dedicated his life to an active role in ensuring social justice and equity.
Cruz Reynoso's Junior College Transcript (1951)
Reynoso was born in Brea, California and grew up in a barrio in La Habra. He went on to attend Fullerton High School and Fullerton Junior College before leaving Orange County.
Reynoso's Pomona College Transcript (1953)
Reynoso later attended Pomona College and graduated as a history major. His interest in history continued throughout his life.
Honorable Discharge Papers (1955)
From 1953-1955, Cruz Reynoso served in the United States Army and for a period of time was a Special Agent in the Counterintelligence Corps.
Commencement Recognition Paper (1958)
Cruz Reynoso successfully completed law school at the University of California, Berkeley School of Law (formerly "Boalt Hall") in June 1958.
Letter Certifying Cruz Reynoso's Admission to the California Bar (1959)
In January 1959, Reynoso was admitted to the California Bar and could practice law in the state. Notice that Reynoso's address is "Ignacio Mariscal 44 Apt. 6 Mexico 1, D.F., Mexico." During this time, Reynoso was completing a Ford Fellowship for specialized study in Constitutional Law at the National University of Mexico.
Portions of Cruz Reynoso's Resume (circa 1959)
Map of the City of El Centro (1964)
After passing the bar, Reynoso and his family moved further south, to the city of El Centro in Imperial County, California. Reynoso and his wife Jeannene became active members of the El Centro community, participating regularly in recreational and political activities.
Photograph of Cruz and Jeannene Reynoso at NAACP Meeting in El Centro (circa 1960)
Letter from Cruz Reynoso to Dolores Huerta (1960)
Reynoso was Vice President of the El Centro chapter of the Community Service Organization (CSO). In this letter, he provides Dolores Huerta with a progress report.
Viva Kennedy Taco Feed Ticket (1960)
Reynoso became an active member in the Democratic Party and supported John F. Kennedy's 1960 bid for the presidency. Viva Kennedy clubs became a vehicle for Mexican-American participation in national politics.
Speech introducing a candidate for Imperial Irrigation District Director (c. 1962)
Reynoso regularly gave speeches and talks in Spanish, encouraging Spanish speakers to participate in the electoral process. In one excerpt from this speech, Reynoso urges his audience that "In a democratic system, its is not just a privilege but a duty to make our vote count."
Blue Book from US History Course (1963)
Cruz and Jeannene Reynoso took several classes at Imperial Valley Community College, including this course on US History
Cruz Reynoso Business Card (c. 1963)
Organizer List for Cruz Reynoso for Assemblyman Club (1963)
In 1963, Cruz Reynoso began his bid for the California State Assembly. He and his supporters formed the Cruz Reynoso for Assemblyman Club and tried to recruit voters from across the 75th District.
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