Historical Perspective

Within the division of Student Affairs, El Centro serves as a support and resource center for all students and their families. El Centro provides various programs throughout the year that allow students the opportunity to enrich their leadership skills, cultural identity, and define their role in the USC community.

In 1972, the term 'Chicano' represented a portion of the population that struggled for political consciousness and inclusion. According to students, faculty, and staff at the University of Southern California (USC), the term 'Chicano' today, represents many different things to many different people. However, El Centro has chosen to continue to use the term 'Chicano' in its name El Centro Chicano for the reasons addressed below.

The 1960's Civil Rights Movement proved to be a turning point for people of color in America. The Chicano Movement, specifically in California and throughout the southwest, continued into the 1970s. Historical achievements allowed for improved socio-economic conditions, including access to higher education.

Such improvements were brought to the University of Southern California by Chicanos. These individuals were students, community members, and family members from diverse nationalities and backgrounds. They shared a common ideology that called for democratic procedures, inclusion, and pride for one's indigenous heritage. It is these principles that served as the foundation for El Centro Chicano.

Since 1972, El Centro Chicano has not only continued to foster these ideals, it is these principles that have allowed it to develop and succeed as a quality student-centered department. All Trojans now have the opportunity to experience higher education in a comfortable, safe, and familiar setting. El Centro is a home that was made possible by the Chicano community, and thus in an effort to respect and honor those who struggled throughout the movement, it is with pride that we remain El Centro Chicano.