Hispanic Heritage Month in Rockford: Campos, Cruzes made significant contributions

How much do you know about the history of Hispanic and Latino culture and community in Rockford?

In recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month, the Rockford Register Star has partnered with La Onda, a newly-formed nonprofit organization, to help share and celebrate the impact of Hispanic and Latino people, businesses and organizations in and around the Rockford area.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized each year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. Visit rrstar.com or the Rockford Register Star newspaper each day to read about the people and places that make up Rockford's Latino community.

This week, we shared biographies of remarkable Latino leaders who made historical strides in Rockford. It is both an honor and a challenge to encapsulate the contributions of so many incredible individuals in a single week. Today, we highlight two key leaders from Rockford’s past. For more stories, visit the Ethnic Heritage Museum’s ongoing exhibits.

Andy Campos made significant contributions to the Latino community through his work with the State Capital Development Board, connecting Latinos to construction work and unions.

Known as a great activist and outspoken advocate, Campos ensured minorities were fairly represented in unions. Campos, alongside Armando Cardenas and Juanita Garcia, founded La Voz Latina, in the 1970s, which provided job development and social services. Campos' dedication often included directly contacting employers and driving residents to necessary services. Campos was a vital voice for the Latino community.

Carmen and Maurilio Cruz were a power couple of the 20th century.

Maurilio, an inspector at Rockford Screw Products, also played baseball in the men's league. Carmen, a trailblazer, was deeply involved in her community, working at St. Elizabeth's Social Center, organizing Mexican Independence Day celebration, and serving as the first female president of the Comité Patriótico Mexicano (CPM) Club in the 1980s.

She tirelessly advocated for the Latino community, interpreting for Spanish speakers and assisting families in need. Maurilio, her husband of 51 years, supported her in these endeavors, and together they were pillars of their community. Their legacy is one of resilience, service, and dedication to family and culture.

These leaders exemplify the spirit of perseverance and community that has shaped Rockford’s vibrant Latino community. We express our deepest gratitude for their contributions and encourage everyone to learn more about their inspiring stories.

Gracias to Armando Cardenas and Monica Terronez, Hispanic Gallery Director at Ethnic Heritage Museum, for your assistance and anecdotes.

Cat Valdez Doyle is a member of the newly founded La Onda board of directors. The mission of La Onda is to serve as a cultural leader for all to celebrate the heritage and diversity of the Latino identity and community throughout the Rockford area.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Hispanic Heritage Month in Rockford: Campos, Cruzes made significant contributions