Texas, in particular, was marked by racial and ethnic tensions, and Mexican Americans were often subjected to systemic barriers that limited their opportunities in education, employment, and political participation.

These early experiences planted the seeds for his later decision to become a lawyer—a career he believed would allow him to fight the injustices faced by Mexican Americans.

[1] During his time in law school, Herrera was exposed to the injustices that Mexican Americans faced in the legal system, and he became increasingly motivated to make a difference.

His education at South Texas College of Law not only equipped him with the knowledge of legal principles and practices but also solidified his commitment to the civil rights movement.

His legacy is evident in the naming of the school, as it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in the United States, especially in communities of color.

The continued presence of his name in the educational system ensures that future generations can learn about the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for equality, and it serves as an inspiration for students to strive for social justice and contribute positively to their communities.

Through his legal work, his leadership in organizations like LULAC, and his commitment to education and political involvement, Herrera helped make a real difference in the fight for justice.

John James Herrera’s career was marked by his pioneering contributions to civil rights and legal reform for Mexican Americans in Texas.

His professional journey reflects decades of commitment to dismantling discriminatory practices through both legal advocacy and active participation in community organizations .

[1] Herrera began his legal career in Houston, Texas, in 1943, at a time when segregation and employment discrimination were deeply entrenched in America.

[5] Early in his practice, Herrera was quick to recognize that legal advocacy could serve as a powerful tool to challenge systemic discrimination.

[7] One of Herrera’s significant early contributions came in 1948, when he joined the legal team in the case brought by Minerva Delgado against the Bastrop Independent School District.

The case addressed the segregation of Mexican American students in public schools, a practice that institutionalized inequality and limited educational opportunities.

As an important figure in the case, Herrera argued that the systemic exclusion of Mexican American jurors from jury pools violated the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S.

As a dedicated member of LULAC since 1933, he was deeply involved in the organization's mission to secure civil rights and social justice for Latino communities.

His political engagement often intersected with his legal civil rights work, enabling him to influence policy decisions and bring greater attention to the issues facing Mexican American communities .

A notable example of his national stature was his role in introducing President John F. Kennedy at a LULAC assembly on November 21, 1963, an event that underscored both his importance in civil rights and the growing political influence of Latino leaders in America [5] John J. Herrera’s legacy is one of fighting for the rights and equality of Mexican Americans and standing up against unfair treatment.

[8] The Supreme Court agreed with Herrera, ruling that Mexican Americans deserved the same constitutional protections as other racial and ethnic groups.

By bearing his name, John J. Herrera Elementary School ensures that future generations learn about his legacy and the struggles for equality faced by Mexican Americans.

Through his legal work, leadership in organizations like LULAC, and advocacy for education and political involvement, Herrera paved the way for future generations to continue the fight for equality.

Their mission is to “advance the economic condition, educational attainment, political influence, housing, health and civil rights of the Hispanic population of the United States.”[12] He held the position as the 21st President of LULAC from 1952-1953.

[15] In 1951 Pete Hernandez was a farm worker convicted of murder in Edna, Texas in Jackson county with an all white jury and life in prison.