Herstory in the Heartland

Preserving the Histories

of Mexican American Women in Eastern Kansas

This site is dedicated to documenting the voices of first generation Mexican American or Chicana women that came of age during the mid-twentieth century in Eastern Kansas, with particular focus on the Oakland neighborhood of Topeka. While many Chicana women throughout the United States shared experiences of racism, sexism, and classism during this era, this project preserves the unique history (or her-story) of Chicanas that navigated discrimination in the conservative heartland. This project is also chronicles their everyday lives, while celebrating their achievements and joy despite adversity.