This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
UC honors Baldwin Park Chicano activist with posthumous degree
Listen
4:00
UC honors Baldwin Park Chicano activist with posthumous degree
By the age of 21, Oscar Gomez of Baldwin Park had already gained a widespread following as an activist and host of a radio show on the UC Davis college radio station. He gave voice to the frustrations of the Chicano community, and he was an imposing presence at student protests throughout the state.
Gomez's voice and influence was tragically cut short on a November night in 1994, when he was found dead at the base of a steep cliff after a protest in Santa Barbara. The circumstances surrounding his mysterious death were never determined.
But his life and story continue to inspire, and after a campaign by his friends and admirers, UC Davis agreed to grant him a posthumous degree in in Chicano studies and behavioral science. His parents will be at the university's commencement ceremonies this spring to hear their son's name included in the roll call of graduates.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
