Señora Power Podcast

Episode 5: Suspicious Señoras Plática

Ven a platicar with us for the last time this season! In our final platica, we talk about what it's like to be a suspicious señora, or a señora with an FBI file. Señoras Flores & Garza-Birdwell were on the streets, in the picket lines, and sometimes, hiding underground. Join us as we compare the differing political strategies of two radical Mexican American activists.

Episode 5: Suspicious Señoras Part 2

In this episode we talk about Yolanda Garza Birdwell, a señora who has been active in Texas for much of the 20th and now 21st centuries. We talk about the surveillance she underwent for her activism, we talk about the radical possibilities of falling in love, and much more! The following are resources referenced during the episode: * FBI Surveillance of Mexicans and Chicanos, 1920-1980, José Angel Gutiérrez (2020) * Interview with Jesus Medel: Chicano museum interviews Yolanda Garza Birdwell, former MAYO member on 5 19 2020 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBzWGR6ahLc]

Episode 5: Suspicious Señoras Part 1

The final episode series begins with Francisca Flores from Los Angeles. Described as one of the most dangerous organizers of the Chicano Movement, señora Francisca built a long legacy of activism oriented toward the youth, women, and workers. She was under heavy government surveillance for most of her life—join us as we discuss her FBI file. CW: deep state surveillance, racism, sexism, abortion, and forced sterilization.

Episode 4: Establishment Señoras Plática

In this plática, we discuss what community-building looks like within the world of establishments and institutions. We focus on the different kinds of grassroots strategies that señoras Lupe and Mamie used—from boxing to business cards. Content warning: police violence, racism, sexism.

Episode 4: Establishment Señoras Part 2

Join us as we talk about Mamie Garcia, a señora whose community organizing and advocacy work has been centered around responding to the needs of her Houston Magnolia Park community. Her response to the 1977 murder of Jose Campos Torres by Houston police officers kicked off what would be an long struggle for the community. Content warning: police brutality, sexism, racism