In Search of a Day in Paradise

New Mexico is a land of crisis; steps must be taken to improve the lives of its residents. In "In Search of a Day in Paradise: Aztlan," author Dr. Moises Venegas analyzes the history of Hispanics in the southwest and makes a call for change in New Mexico's education, policies, and politics.

Venegas shows that after four hundred years, mestizo Hispanos are still searching for their elusive day in paradise-that cultural, economic, political and educational paradise that could help put them in a better place in the future. "In Search of a Day in Paradise: Aztlan" discusses how, in this modern era, New Mexicans can strive for the return of Aztlan-New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, Arizona, and California-by demanding a better education, voting for leaders who do not just talk but act when it comes to improving the job situation in New Mexico, and eliminating poverty.

"In Search of a Day in Paradise: Aztlan" offers insight into how using historical data can be of influence as Hispanos seek to improve their standing in today's society. Time will tell if they will perform better educationally and politically in 2075 than they have in the past.