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Primary Sources
A 15-year-old Terrence Roberts is turned away from Central High School by members of the
National Guard. 1956. Today Magazine, Trustees of the California State University,
photograph shows Terrance Roberts getting turned away from Central High School by
members of the National Guard. Terrance and Sylvia were both denied education rights
because of their racial group, facing a similar situation just years apart. We can use this
photo to support our statements that there were many other issues after Sylvia’s case that
faced segregation, and how the Mendez case was valuable to those. This source is reliable
because it is the official website for a vastly known college, California State University.
The website displays a large amount of information about the college and offered
opportunities along with proving they value giving back, by encouraging others to make a
17th Street School, Westminster, Class Photograph. 2014. Chapman University Digital
image shows the second grade class of the 17th street school. This source has been
deemed reliable because the image has been found through the Chapman University
Digital Commons. Not only do they include an about us section with information
regarding the school, but the Digital Commons as well. This image will be used to show
the people who were involved and assist the viewers comprehension of the case.
“Affidavit for Citation.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-9. Mendez et al v Westminster,
This is the Affidavit for Citation of September 27, 1946. This affidavit was filed by Alexander
M. Lievanos, alleging that his son was denied entrance to the Roosevelt School in the El
Modena School District, in violation of the injunction on segregation. This filing outlined
the issues that the school districts planned to use to appeal the District Court’s ruling. We
deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also
including court documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of
This is the Affidavit of David C. Marcus, under this document the lawyer for the
plaintiffs and the judge agreed that copies of briefs, which had to go to more than 20
individuals, did not have to be delivered by a US Marshal. It will be used under “The
Case” to provide first hand knowledge of the case. We deemed this website reliable
because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents,
contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story
“Answers of the School District.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-22. Mendez et al v
This is the answers of the School District, the El Modino, Garden Grove Elementary, Santa Ana
City and Westminster School Districts’ responses to the petition. They answered that the
court had no jurisdiction over the matter and generally. We deemed this website reliable
because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents,
contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story
“Application for Leave to Appear Amicus Curiae (ACLU).” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-3.
10 Feb. 2018.
This is the application for Leave to Appear Amicus Curiae (ACLU), The American Civil
Liberties Union submitted this application to become a “friend of the court” with the right
to submit materials relating to the case. We deemed this website reliable because it is
dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents, contact
information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these
heroic families.
Arthur & Irene Polomino with Joe. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons,
image shows Arthur Palomino with his mother, Irene Perez Palomino, and friend Joe at
Seal Beach. We believe this source is reliable because we found the image through the
Chapman University Digital Commons. The source includes an about us section about
the Digital Commons along with information on Chapman itself. This image will help the
viewer visualize the people involved in the case and create a better understanding.
Arthur Palomino 5th Grade Class Photo. Chapman University Digital Commons, Leatherby
Accessed 31 Jan. 2018. This image shows the fifth grade class of the in Garden Grove
California. This source has been deemed reliable because the image has been found
through the Chapman University Digital Commons. Not only do they include an about us
section with information regarding the school, but the Digital Commons as well. This
image will be used to show the people who were involved and assist the viewers
Arthur Palomino at Fremont School. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Ditgital Commons,
image is Arthur and Bobby Palomino in a fourth grade class photo from Fremont school.
We believe this source is reliable because we found the image through the Chapman
University Digital Commons. The source includes an “About Us” tab regarding the
Digital Commons along with information on Chapman itself. This image will help the
viewer visualize the people involved in the case and create a better understanding.
Arthur Palomino in the 1st Grade. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons,
image shows Arthur Palomino at the age of 7 in first grade in 1940. We believe this
source is reliable because we found the image through the Chapman University Digital
Commons. The source includes an about us section about the Digital Commons along
with information on Chapman itself. This image will help the viewer understand the case
Arthur Palomino in the 1st Grade. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons,
an image of Arthur Palomino in the first grade at age 7, attending the Seal Beach School.
This source has been deemed reliable because the image has been found through the
information about Chapman, they have information of the Digital Commons.This image
will be used to show the people who were involved and assist the viewers comprehension
of the case.
Arthur Palomino & Siblings. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons, Leatherby
Accessed 31 Jan. 2018. This image shows Arthur Palomino (far left) and his siblings
Ricardo, Viola and Henry Pala Mountain, CA. Arthur’s father, Frank We believe this
source is reliable because we found the image through the Chapman University Digital
Commons. The source includes an about us section about the Digital Commons along
with information on Chapman itself. This image will help create a better understanding
As a child Sylvia Mendez integrated an elementary school in Orange County. (Photo courtesy
Sylvia Mendez). 1936-1951. Today Magazine, Trustees of the California State University,
use this photo to give a visual reference of Sylvia before her impact began, and before the
case was brought to attention. This source is reliable because it is the official website for
a vastly known college, California State University. The website displays a large amount
of information about the college and offered opportunities along with proving they value
image of Billy Guzman as a young child. This image is used to show members of an
important family who helped fight for their rights to attend the school of their choice.
Billy’s entire family was involved in this fight for him and his siblings to get the
education they deserve. This image is included in a page of other pictures of the entire
Guzman family. We know this source is reliable because all of the sources and outside
“Brief of NLG and ACLU.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-19. Mendez et al v Westminster,
Brief of NLG and ACLU of October 1, 1945. This “Friend of the Court” joint filing by
the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Lawyers Guild presents arguments
supporting the case and addressing issues raised during the trials.We deemed this website
reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court
documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply
requests for copies of the case and affidavits of service by mail. This filing outlined the
issues that the school districts planned to use to appeal the District Court’s ruling. We
deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also
including court documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of
Conclusions of the Court. 18 Mar. 1966. National Archives Catalog, The U.S. National Archives
2017. These images show the Conclusions of the Court regarding the case of Mendez v.
Westminster. This source has been deemed reliable because the item has been found
through the National Archives. We will be using these images to assist in the
understanding of the case, and help the viewer comprehend the process in which actions
were taken.
“Conclusions of the Court.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-20. Mendez et al v Westminster,
This is the Conclusions of the Court of February 18, 1946. In this document Judge McCormick
laid out his conclusions. It includes an explanation of the questions raised by the case and
cites specific legal precedents as the basis for his conclusions. We deemed this website
reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court
documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply
David Marcus. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons, Leatherby Libraries, 31
2018. This image displays David Marcus, the Los-Angeles based attorney who
represented the Mendez family in court. We believe this source is reliable because we
found the image through the Chapman University Digital Commons. The source includes
an about us section about the Digital Commons along with information on Chapman
itself. This image will help the viewer visualize the people involved in the case and create
a better understanding.
“Defendants’ Reply Brief.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-19. Mendez et al v Westminster,
Defendant's’ Reply Brief of October 17, 1945. Filed on behalf of the school districts, this
brief puts forth arguments opposing the case and addressing issues raised during the
trials. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case,
while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page about
Felícitas and Gonzalo Méndez. 1916-1998. Smithsonian National Museum of American History,
2018, americanhistory.si.edu/brown/history/2-battleground/pursuit-equality-2.html.
Accessed 1 Dec. 2017. This photograph shows Felícitas and Gonzalo Méndez holding
Sylvia as a child, which will be used to show the background before the case was put into
place, and before the conflict. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History is
trustworthy because it is a nationally known organization, with a clear mission and
Felicitas and Gonzalo Mendez. 1944. Today Magazine, Trustees of the California State
2018. This photograph shows Felicitas and Gonzalo standing together for a picture. We
can use this photo for showing Sylvia’s family and her parents’ appearance before the
case, leaving a visual impact on the viewer of the website. This source is reliable because
it is the official website for a vastly known college, California State University. The
website displays a large amount of information about the college and offered
opportunities along with proving they value giving back, by encouraging others to make a
“Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-15. Mendez et al v
This is the Conclusions of the Court of February 18, 1946. In this document Judge McCormick
laid out his conclusions. It includes an explanation of the questions raised by the case and
cites specific legal precedents as the basis for his conclusions. We deemed this website
reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court
documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply
Frank & Arthur Palomino. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons, Leatherby
Accessed 1 Feb. 2018. This image shows Frank Palomino and his son Arthur. We believe
this source is reliable because we found the image through the Chapman University
Digital Commons. The source includes an about us section about the Digital Commons
along with information on Chapman itself. This image will help the viewer visualize the
Hoover School. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons, Leatherby Libraries, 31
2018. This image displays the Hoover School for Hispanic children in Westminster
California. This source has been deemed reliable because the image has been found
through the Chapman University Digital Commons. Not only do they include an about us
section with information regarding the school, but the Digital Commons as well. This
image will be used to show the people who were involved and assist the viewers
10 Feb. 2018. This is the Appeal Bond of March 30, 1946. This certifies that the families
who brought the case had arranged for a bond to cover the cost of the appeal if the Court
of Appeals ruled in favor of the School Districts.We deemed this website reliable because
it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents, contact
information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these
heroic families.
“Judgment and Injunction.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-4. Mendez et al v Westminster,
McCormick’s decision that the school districts had in fact illegally segregated students
and barred them from doing so in the future. We deemed this website reliable because it
is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents, contact
information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these
heroic families.
shows one child involved in a similar situation as the Mendez family, June Hernandez, at
a young age. This photo will be used to show how the issue of segregation affected more
than just the families in the Mendez v. Westminster case, and how the situation presented
itself multiple times throughout history, with various races. This is a reliable source
because of the large base the organization has created, with many people involved, a
“June 26,1945 Pretrial Transcripts.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-118. Mendez et al v
This is the Pretrial Transcripts of June 26, 1945. We deemed this website reliable because it is
dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents, contact
information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these
heroic families.
Loretta Sanchez honors ‘Mendez’ plaintiffs. 12 Sept. 2011. The Orange County Register,
www.ocregister.com/2011/09/12/loretta-sanchez-honors-mendez-plaintiffs/. Accessed 1
Feb. 2018. This images shows California representative Loretta Sanchez recognizing
members of the Estrada family for the families contributions to ending segregation. We
believe this image comes from a reliable source because they include background
knowledge on their mission and accomplishments, along with details on how to contact
them. This image will be used on Personal Background so the view can see those
www.mendezetalvwestminster.com, 2013,
shows a picture of the sign on the Lorenzo A. Ramirez Library at a California High
School. This image will be used to show examples of the long term impact “Mendez v.
Westminster” had on students all over the United States. There are many high schools all
over California who are named after this important case that ended segregation for
Mexican American students. We know this is a reliable source because of the direct dates
of listed on the images and all the sources listed on the websites.
Los Angeles Times clipping on the case. 1946. OC Weekly, OC Weekly News, 16 Feb. 2016,
This image of a newspaper article discusses the result of the case, from the ruling of
Judge Paul J. McCormick. We will use this image to prove how the case affected other
and made a large impact, locally and nationally. OC Weekly is a reliable source because
it is a direct reference intended to inform people about local events and history.
LULAC Fundraising Event. 1929. Smithsonian National Museum of American History, 2018,
americanhistory.si.edu/brown/history/2-battleground/pursuit-equality-2.html. Accessed
16 Jan. 2018. This is a photograph of The League of United Latin American Citizens
(LULAC), a fundraiser that supported the Mendez family. We will use this for proving
how the case grew to be nationwide, involving various groups of people and
because it is a nationally known organization, with a clear mission and history, along
“Mendez et al v Westminster Trial Transcript.” Records of District Courts of the United States,
Feb. 2018. This is a trial transcript of the case taking place in Los Angeles, California on
July 5th, 1945. The transcript states many people involved, their remarks, and evidence
brought to the court. We will use the transcript to show what happened in court, and the
way the case was handled. Since this information comes from the National Archives we
WESTMINISTER SCHOOL DIST. OF ORANGE COUNTY, PDF ed. This source shows
details of the Mendez v. Westminster case, more specifically the trial itself. We are
confident this is from a reliable because This source is reliable because it is a primary
source from the case. All the information that came from the trials is shown within the
documents and provides important dates and times. We will be using this source to
explain what happened in the case as opposed to the journey to the courtroom and the
people involved.
Mendez v. Westminster Postal Stamp. 2007. United States Courts, Administrative Office of the
www.uscourts.gov/educational-resources/educational-activities/background-mendez-v-w
commemorating the case issued in 2007. The photograph will be used to show the lasting
impact the case made and the way the case is addressed now. We believe this came from
a credible source because the image was obtained from the United States Courts website,
and the site is maintained by the Administrative Office of the U.S Courts on behalf of the
Federal Judiciary/
Meraji, Shereen Marisol. Sylvia Mendez. 16 May 2014. npr.org, NPR, 16 May 2014,
www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2014/05/16/312555636/before-brown-v-board-mendez
smiling Sylvia Mendez after receiving the Medal of Honor. This image is used to show a
main character in the case who left a lasting impact for people of color attending school.
This image came from a credible source that gives a specific date and photographer along
with the writer of the article and the date it was published.
americanhistory.si.edu/brown/history/2-battleground/pursuit-equality-2.html. Accessed 3
Dec. 2017. This photograph shows a group of students from Lincoln Elementary School
for Mexican children in Orange County. This will be used to show the circumstances
before the case was brought to court, and the students previously denied of education
Feb. 2018. This photograph shows the 1923 class photo of a “Mexican School” in Orange
County California. The school was nicknamed “The Barn” because of the poor conditions
of the school. This image is important because it was one of the schools that was brought
up in the case of Mendez v. Westminster. We will use this image for examples of schools
who were affected by the impact that Mendez v. Westminster made across the state of
California. This picture is reliable because of the specific information it gives that follows
other sources. There are also specific dates to help backup the information.
“‘No Mexicans Allowed:’ School Segregation in the Southwest.” 1910-1920. Latino USA,
23 Jan. 2018. This image shows a sign that demonstrates the segregation of Mexicans,
stating that they only serve “whites”. We will use this image when we discuss the
conditions for Mexicans in the United States, well before the Mendez v. Westminster
case. Latino USA is a trustworthy source because it is associated with the National Public
Radio, a largely known company that provides national news, programs, and information
This is the Notice of Appeal of March 30, 1946. This document gives notice to the court and the
plaintiffs that the defendants would file an appeal with the Ninth Circuit Court of
Appeals.We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case,
while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page about
“Notice of Motion to Dismiss Petition.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-2. Mendez et al v
This is the Notice of Motion to Dismiss Petition, this motion, submitted by the Orange
County Counsel, asked the judge to dismiss the case, asserting the court had no
jurisdiction over the matter. It will be used under “The Case” to provide first hand
completely to the case, while also including court documents, contact information, and
including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families.
“Notice of Motion to Obtain Stay of Execution Pending Decision on Appeal.” Original Court
This is the Notice of Motion to Obtain Stay of Execution Pending Decision on Appeal of
October 8, 1946. This motion by the defendants requested that the Judge’s decision be
suspended until the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals could rule on the case. This filing
outlined the issues that the school districts planned to use to appeal the District Court’s
ruling. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case,
while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page about
“Order Setting the Trial Date June 4, 1945.” Original Court Documents, p. 1. Mendez et al v
This is the Order Setting the Trial Date June 4, 1945, this order set the trial date for
Thursday July 4, 1945 at 10:00 AM. We deemed this website reliable because it is
dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents, contact
information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these
heroic families.
“Order to Comply with Order to Submit Briefs.” Original Court Documents, p. 1. Mendez et al v
This is the Order to Comply with Order to Submit Briefs of September 7, 1945. Judge
McCormick issued this order to inform the litigants that they had failed to submit brief by
his deadline. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the
case, while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page
about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families.
“Order to File Mandate of Court of Appeals.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-5. Mendez et al v
This is the Order to File Mandate of Court of Appeals of February 25, 1949. This order from the
Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals notified the District Court that Judge McCormick’s ruling
had been upheld. This motion by the defendants requested that the Judge’s decision be
suspended until the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals could rule on the case. This filing
outlined the issues that the school districts planned to use to appeal the District Court’s
ruling. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case,
while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page about
“Order to Show Cause and Affidavit in Re Contempt.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-2.
10 Feb. 2018. This is the Order to Show Cause and Affidavit in Re Contempt of
September 27, 1946. This order required the El Modena School District to explain why it
should not be held in contempt of court for continuing to segregate children. This filing
outlined the issues that the school districts planned to use to appeal the District Court’s
ruling. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case,
while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page about
Paul J. McCormick. 31 Oct. 2014. Chapman University Digital Commons, Leatherby Libraries,
2018. This image shows Judge Paul J. McCormick, the judge of the Mendez v
Westminster case. This source has been deemed reliable because the image has been
found through the Chapman University Digital Commons. Not only do they include an
about us section with information regarding the school, but the Digital Commons as well.
This image will be used to show those who were involved and assist the viewers
2018.
This is the Petitioners’ Opening Brief of September 7, 1945. Filed on behalf of the students and
parents, this brief puts forth arguments supporting the case and addressing issues raised
during the trials. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to
the case, while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page
about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families.
“Petition that initiated the case.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-10. Mendez et al v
This is the petition that initiated the case, it stated that four Orange County school districts
segregated children of Mexican and Latin descent in violation of the Constitution. It will
be used under “The Case” to provide first hand knowledge of the case. We deemed this
website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court
documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply
Photo is the 1934 1st Grade Class at the “Mexican” Wilson School in Orange County, CA. 1934.
larazalawyers.net/. Accessed 22 Jan. 2018. This photograph shows the first grade class at
the Mexican Wilson School in Orange County, California. We will use this photo to
demonstrate the conditions and circumstances of Mexican children over ten years before
the Mendez case was introduced. This source is dependable because they have a
displayed goal and purpose that includes clear and helpful intentions. Furthermore, they
plaintiff families. 1940. California State University, Fullerton News, California State University,
23 Jan. 2018. This photograph shows Lorenzo, Ignacio, Josefina and Jim Ramirez. It
photo will be used to assist the viewer in understanding the case. This source is
dependable because they have a displayed goal and purpose that includes clear and
“Plaintiffs’ Reply Brief.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-12. Mendez et al v Westminster,
This is the Plaintiffs’ Reply Brief of November 1, 1945. This reply brief, submitted by the
plaintiffs presents arguments against those presented by the defendants in their reply brief
of October 17, 1945. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely
to the case, while also including court documents, contact information, and including a
page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families.
This photograph shows the Presidential Medal of Freedom of 1969. Sylvia Mendez was
given the same award and recognition in 2010. This photograph will be displayed with
our other photos involving the medal, with Sylvia and former president Obama. This is a
trustworthy source due to the connection to the Library of Congress. The illustration,
along with additional information, was provided through a well-known government
association.
the three Ramirez boys helps our viewers get a better understanding of the real people
who were fighting for their rights during this case. The image shows three young
gives lots of information that is backed up by multiple sources. As well as lots of many
Accessed 7 Feb. 2018. This image, photograph shows four members of the Ramirez
family. Their names are Lorenzo, Ignacio, Josefina and Jim Ramirez. They were an
important part of the Mendez v Westminster case because they were one of the five
families fighting for their rights. It is important to keep pictures like this because it helps
us to remember that these were real people with real struggles. Without them, many
Americans wouldn’t be able to attend the schools that they deserve to attend. This
photograph was found on the California State University’s website showing that it is a
reliable source. The date of the article and photographers of the pictures is also listening
which gives credit to those who were involved. This photograph helps us remember all of
This is the Reply Brief of NLG and ACLU of October 25, 1945.The National Lawyers
Guild and the American Civil Liberties Union submitted this document in reply to the
defendant’s reply brief of October 17, 1945. We deemed this website reliable because it
is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents, contact
information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these
heroic families.
Respondents Objections to Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law of March 26, 1946.
The Orange County Counsel filed this objection to the Findings of Fact for not including
a finding that the separate school facilities were equal in all ways.We deemed this
website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court
documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply
“Respondents Statement of Points Which They Intend to Reply on Appeal.” Original Court
Respondents Statement of points which they intend to reply on appeal of April 5, 1946.
This filing outlined the issues that the school districts planned to use to appeal the District
Court’s ruling. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the
case, while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page
about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families.
Roberts and other members of the Little Rock Nine. 1998. Today Magazine, Trustees of the
Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. In this photograph, President Bill Clinton is signing a bill to make
Little Rock Central High School a National Historic Site. This photo will be used to
demonstrate the lasting impact that standing up against segregation has had on the United
States. This source is reliable because it is the official website for a vastly known college,
California State University. The website displays a large amount of information about the
college and offered opportunities along with proving they value giving back, by
Rosenberg, Jeremy. Hover School 1944 First Grade Class. 1944. Kcet.org, KCETLink, 1 Apr.
2013,
www.kcet.org/history-society/no-dogs-or-mexicans-allowed-mendez-v-westminster-and-i
ts-legacy. Accessed 9 Feb. 2018. This photograph illustrates a first grade class of students
yearbook for the grade. In this image you see all the students of the class and their teacher
posing in front of their classroom. This image is important because it shows the real life
struggle of all the students forced into these schools. Their problems are not just stories,
but are real events that can be visualized by evidence like this picture. We will use this
picture to show the importance of change for students like the ones in the photograph. We
know it is reliable because of the header of the photograph and the specific dates given
Statue of Ramirez at Santiago Canyon College. 1946-2018. OC Weekly, OC Weekly News, 16
Feb. 2016,
www.ocweekly.com/news/ocs-famous-desegregation-case-mendez-et-al-vs-westminster-
shows a statue displaying the figure of Ramirez at Santiago Canyon College, who also
sued the El Modeno school district for not allowing his children to attend the same school
that he did. We will use this photograph to show that the Mendez family was not the only
family with this issue. OC Weekly is a reliable source because it is a direct reference
Students in front of Roosevelt School, El Modena. 1922. OC Weekly, OC Weekly News, 16 Feb.
2016,
www.ocweekly.com/news/translatina-immigrant-dies-in-suspicious-la-apartment-fire-870
6080. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. This photograph shows students standing in front of
Roosevelt School, in El Modena, which will be used to show the schools that Mexican
children were sent to, instead of the Westminster school district. OC Weekly is a reliable
source because it is a direct reference intended to inform people about local events and
history.
summons for the school district, this summons required the school districts to provide the
plaintiffs’ attorney with a response to the petition within 20 days. It will be used under
“The Case” to provide first hand knowledge of the case. We deemed this website reliable
because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents,
contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story
“Sylvia Mendez.” 12 Oct. 2011. US Courts, Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, 2018,
www.uscourts.gov/educational-resources/educational-activities/background-mendez-v-w
receiving her Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011. The photograph will be used to
show the recognition Sylvia later received for the efforts both she and her parents made.
We are sure this comes from a credible source because we got the image from the United
States Courts website, and the site is maintained by the Administrative Office of the U.S
Sylvia Mendez being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. 2011. Today Magazine,
photograph is from the ceremony in which former president Obama presents Sylvia
Mendez with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. We will use this photo to show the
impact and recognition that Sylvia and others like her deserve. It will also be used to
assist the viewers of our website in making an emotional connection. This source is
reliable because it is the official website for a vastly known college, California State
University. The website displays a large amount of information about the college and
offered opportunities along with proving they value giving back, by encouraging others
Tonatiuh, Duncan. Separate Is Never Equal. 2014. Library of Congress, USA.gov, 26 Feb. 2015,
This illustration, done by Duncan Tonatiuh, shows the separation of white children from
the other children. Due to the visual impact it has, we will be using this when discussing
the long term impact of the case, and how it has continued to influence our society today.
This is a trustworthy source due to the connection to the Library of Congress. The
government association.
“Trail Transcript July 5, 1945.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-159. Mendez et al v
This is the Trail Transcript of July 5, 1945. This transcript documents trial activity on
July 5, 1945, including testimony from Felicitas Fuentes, James L. Kent, Juan Munoz,
Manuela Ochoa, Frank Palomino, and Jane Sianez. We deemed this website reliable
because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court documents,
contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply spreading the story
“Trial Transcript – July 11, 1945.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-127. Mendez et al v
This is the Trial Transcript of July 11, 1945. This transcript documents trial activity on
July 5, 1945, including testimony from Isabel Ayala, Ralph L. Beals, Frank A.
Henderson, Marie H. Hughes, Gonzalo Mendez, and Manuela Ochoa. We deemed this
website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also including court
documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of simply
“Trial Transcript – July 9, 1945.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-119. Mendez et al v
This is the Trial Transcript of July 9, 1945. This transcript documents trial activity on
July 9, 1945, including testimony from Richard F. Harris and Gonzalo Mendez. We
deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the case, while also
including court documents, contact information, and including a page about their goal of
“Trial Transcript – July 6, 1945.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-183. Mendez et al v
Westminster, mendezetalvwestminster.com/pdf/Trial_Transcript_July%206_1945.pdf.
This is the Trial Transcript of July 6, 1945. This transcript documents trial activity on July 6,
1945, including testimony from Felicitas Fuentes, Virginia Guzman, William Guzman,
Harold Hammarsten, Frank A. Henderson, Mrs. Nieves Pena, Robert Perez, Lorenzo
Ramirez, and others. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely
to the case, while also including court documents, contact information, and including a
page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families.
“Trial Transcript – July 10, 1945.” Original Court Documents, pp. 1-128. Mendez et al v
Westminster, mendezetalvwestminster.com/pdf/Trial_Transcript_July_10_1945.pdf.
Accessed 10 Feb. 2018. This is the Trial Transcript of July 10, 1945. This transcript
documents trial activity on July 10, 1945, including testimony from Edith M. Gilbert,
Richard F. Harris, James L. Kent, John Marval, Felicitias Mendez, Gonzalo Mendez, and
to the case, while also including court documents, contact information, and including a
page about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families.
ed., 1 Aug. 1941. This source, includes legal documents on the Mendez v. Westminster
court case and was published during the trials. It gives information on all the events that
took place during the events of the trial and gives avid details as well. This source is
reliable because it is a primary source from the case. All the information that came from
the trials is shown within the documents and gives crucial dates and times. These
documents are being used to help understand the results of the trials and what was going
on during the time of them. They also give the names of crucial civilians who played
Secondary Sources
Arredondo, María Luisa. “Sylvia Méndez, a Champion of Racial Tolerance and Equality in
www.huffingtonpost.com/maria-luisa-arredondo/sylvia-mendez-a-champion-_b_1010975
.html. Accessed 21 Nov. 2017. In this article, Sylvia’s impact on racial acceptance and
equal education is discussed, along with a review of how she affected many lives through
the Mendez v. Westminster case. This source is reliable because they have the author,
date, and publisher clearly stated, as well as direct quotes from an interview with Sylvia
Mendez. They also have easily accessible information about the names and purpose of
each individual involved in the company. We will use this website to discuss Sylvia’s
long term affects, her background, and her mission to help and change the circumstances
www.uscourts.gov/educational-resources/educational-activities/background-mendez-v-w
and information regarding the case of Mendez v. Westminster, along with Sylvia
Mendez. We are confident in the reliability of this source because the material comes
directly from the United States Courts on behalf of the Judicial Branch of the U.S
Government. This source will be used for describing the process and outcome of the case,
“Before ‘Brown V. Board,’ Mendez Fought California’s Segregated Schools.” National Public
www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2014/05/16/312555636/before-brown-v-board-mendez
about the beginning process of Sylvia’s education, leading to the trial and what would
later be the Brown v. Board of Education case. The National Public Radio is reliable
because the article has a clear date published, and a variety of different reviews and
articles about their purpose, history, people involved, awards, and more. We will be using
our information gathered from this source to provide an overview of Sylvia’s impact on
the Brown v. Board case, as well as statistics and beginning of the education
disagreement.
Chang, Alvin. “Is your district drawing borders to reduce or perpetuate racial segregation?” Vox,
www.vox.com/2018/1/8/16822374/school-segregation-gerrymander-map. Accessed 15
Feb. 2018. Within this website, we gathered information on how the Bettendorf School
District’s attendance zones impact the segregation of the district. Along with the graphics
included, it is stated that our attendance zones are drawn in a way that reduces the
amount of segregation. We will use this source to explain the affect of segregation today,
and how our district specifically controls it. Vox is reliable because of it’s immensely
trusted information, and clearly displayed details on the production of the site.
Echavarri, Fernanda, and Marlon Bishop. “‘No Mexicans Allowed:’ School Segregation in the
latinousa.org/2016/03/11/no-mexicans-allowed-school-segregation-in-the-southwest/.
Accessed 21 Nov. 2017. This source provides good insight to an interview with Sylvia
Mendez, regarding how Sylvia’s father took the case to court. The article also gives good
background information about events that happened to Sylvia because she was Mexican.
This source is reliable because the date is recent so the information is up to date. Also,
the author is taking credit for the information, which proves that they want to take credit
for the work they put in. We are using this source for background information about how
Gonzalo Mendez became involved in the case. This information is helpful in gaining
“Editorial: Sylvia Mendez.” The Orange County Register, WordPress VIP, 18 Feb. 2011,
2017. This article discusses the event in which Sylvia received the Medal of Freedom, on
February 15, 2011. The article contains a brief review of Sylvia’s impact to deserve the
award, along with multiple quotes from Sylvia and others. The Orange County Register is
trustworthy and reliable because they include background knowledge on their mission
and accomplishments, along with details on how to contact them. Not only does the
register originate from the location the events in the case took place, but the newspaper
has been awarded three Pulitzer prizes. We will be using this source to discuss Sylvia’s
achievement of earning the award, as well as quotes from her and others.
Esquivel, Maria Blanco. “The Lasting Impact of Mendez v. Westminster in the Struggle for
www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/lasting-impact-mendez-v-westminster-str
cases lasting impact on desegregation, specifically the impact within the case of Brown v.
includes context about themselves and their purpose, along with including contact
information. We will be using this source to assist in the comprehension of the lasting
a list of the families and members involved in the Mendez v Westminster case. Within
the names, there are links to other family pages, along with the school districts, parents,
and children. We deemed this website reliable because it is dedicated completely to the
case, while also including court documents, contact information, and including a page
about their goal of simply spreading the story of these heroic families. We will use our
information from this website to discuss which families were involved, as well as minor
“In Pursuit of Equality.” National Museum of American History, Smithsonian National Museum
americanhistory.si.edu/brown/history/2-battleground/pursuit-equality-2.html. Accessed
21 Nov. 2017. Within this article, we learned about the effects of the Mendez v.
Westminster case, specifically on equality for all people despite races. The article
discusses the controversy of equality at an earlier time, along with multiple people and
periods of time where equality has been an issue. This source is reliable because it comes
well-known and trusted by many people. They also provide information about the
organization’s history, mission, staff, programs, and other opportunities. We will be using
our information gathered from this source to review the history of equality, and earlier
2016,
www.latimes.com/socal/weekend/news/tn-wknd-et-0417-sylvia-mendez-70-anniversary-
Sylvia Mendez is and the events that have shaped her life into what it is today. It includes
quotes from Mendez to help show evidence of the information and includes lots of little
details. This source is reliable because it has been dated recently and gives the author’s
name. The information is also in correlation with other sites that have been sued for
similar information. The source is being used to gain background on how Sylvia Mendez
life was during her youth. It is important to know this information so that all the other
Leal, Fermin. “O.C. civil rights icon Mendez awarded Medal of Freedom.” The Orange County
www.ocregister.com/2011/02/15/oc-civil-rights-icon-mendez-awarded-medal-of-freedom
/. Accessed 21 Nov. 2017. This source regards Sylvia Mendez receiving her Medal of
Freedom and includes multiple quotes in relation to the event. We deemed this source
reliable because the information comes from the Orange County Register, they include
background knowledge on their mission and accomplishments, along with details on how
to contact them. Not only does the register originate from the location the events in the
case took place, but the newspaper has been awarded three Pulitzer prizes. We will be
using this source to create an understanding of the impact after the case, and how those
blogs.loc.gov/law/2014/05/before-brown-v-board-of-education-there-was-mendez-v-west
minster/. Accessed 29 Nov. 2017. This website includes lots of different buildings and
people who brought the case together and desegregated the Westminster school district. It
gives the basic information about the case and then goes into minor details about those
who were involved. It shows the difficult process that the families fighting for their rights
went through and how they got to where they are today. This source is reliable because it
gives an author who want to take credit for their work and gives lots of information about
people involved in the case. The information also agrees with other information from
other articles and is written well. We are using this website to get information on why
segregation began in the area and how it affected the families that were involved.
Oct. 2007,
mendezwestminstercase.blogspot.com/2007/08/mendez-v-westminster-case.html.
Accessed 7 Dec. 2017. From this source we were able to gain information on different
court cases that have been affected by Mendez vs. Westminster. The site also included
lots of good pictures and drawings that surrounded the case. There is even a timeline
included in the dates of the different court cases throughout history. We know this source
is reliable because it gives the author’s name, showing that she wants credit for her work.
As well as giving lots of sources that backup their information. All the information is
backed up by other websites that we have used. We are using this resource to find
Foundation, 2007,
www.crf-usa.org/bill-of-rights-in-action/bria-23-2-c-mendez-v-westminster-paving-the-w
Westminster case itself, such as the process and conclusion of the case. The
Constitutional Rights Foundation is a reliable source because they have a clear mission
and purpose, with a video and article thoroughly discussing those topics. They also have
pages about their board of directors and staff. Our information from this source will be
used to review earlier segregation issues in California, and how the Mendez v.
Norwood, Robyn. “70 years later, O.C. school desegregation case echoes on campus.”
blogs.chapman.edu/news-and-stories/2017/09/26/70-years-school-desegregation-mendez-
westminster/. Accessed 7 Dec. 2017. On the Chapman University site, the author of the
article writes about how this specific school celebrated the 70th anniversary of the
Mendez v. Westminster case. They commemorate the case and families through displays
and exhibits, while teaching others about the impact and importance of the case, along
with the relevance to today. This website is reliable because of its representation for a
when discussing how the case still affects people today, and how it can be remembered.
gain information regarding the background of the case, along with minor details in
relation to the creation of the school that was named and funded in honor of the case and
its people. We are confident in the reliability of this source because the school provides
lots of material regarding their story, and provides information on how to contact the
school. We will be using this source in order to help the viewer understand the
documents, information on families involved in the case, and the history of the case plus
those involved. This website is reliable because it includes authors and sponsors for the
site. It also includes links to libraries of people who created an impact on the case. The
information within the website also matches with information from other sites. We are
using the website for background information on people involved in the case other than
the Mendez family. All of the information is helpful in showing all the families and how
“School Desegregation and Civil Rights Stories: Orange County, California.” National Archives,
Nov. 2017. This source includes information regarding the steps that the Mendez family
took to give their children the schooling that they deserve, along with different arguments
that the schools superintendent tried to use to keep the family out of the school. We
believe this source is reliable due to the fact it includes information, such as where to
contact the publishers, the date in which the article was last updated. We are using this
database to secure and backup how this trial began and what steps were taken to help win
the case.
UP of Kansas, 2007. Landmark Law Cases and American Society. Within this book, the
events leading up to the case were discussed, along with details about the Mendez family.
We learned about the beginning of immigration from Mexico to the United States, as well
as the working and lifestyle conditions. This book reviews how future events led up to the
court case, problems occurring within the time, and the outcome of the case. This book is
reliable because it was professionally published, and therefore must have been reviewed
and edited many times, making sure all of the information it contains is valuable and
trustworthy. We are using this book as one of our main sources, discussing previous
Tijerino, Jose Antonio. “As We Celebrate Brown vs. BOE, Let’s Remember Mendez vs.
www.huffingtonpost.com/jose-antonio-tijerino/as-we-celebrate-brown-vs-_b_5340165.ht
ml. Accessed 7 Dec. 2017. This source, includes information on why the Mendez case is
so important in history and how it supported the Brown vs. The Board of Education case.
As well as background on those who were highly involved in both cases, like Thurgood
Marshall and his family. This source is reliable because it is up to date and gives the
name of the author who wrote the article. As well as siting other reliable source, the
article backs up other information from other websites. We will use this information to
show the after affects that Mendez v Westminster had on families all across the country,