TITLE: Honoring Rio Vista Farm in Socorro on the occasion of National Historic Preservation Month.

SUMMARY: Honoring Rio Vista Farm in Socorro on the occasion of National Historic Preservation Month.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The observance of National Historic Preservation Month in May 2025 provides an ideal opportunity to recognize Rio Vista Farm in Socorro; and WHEREAS, Rio Vista Farm was founded as a poor farm and institutional facility in the early 20th century; beginning in World War II, it became a crucial site in the Bracero Program, the landmark labor agreement between the United States and Mexico that brought Mexican workers to the U.S. to fill agricultural and railroad jobs; and WHEREAS, After opening in 1942 as one of the first bracero reception and processing centers, Rio Vista remained one of the most active until its closing in 1964; thousands of Mexican laborers passed through its gates, responding to our nation's workforce needs during the war and in the decades that followed; and WHEREAS, The City of Socorro and its historic preservation officer, Victor Reta, have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the importance of Rio Vista; in 2024, it was designated as a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service, becoming the first site in Far West Texas to receive this distinction in over two decades; and WHEREAS, Today, the city is leading a $35 million historic rehabilitation project to transform Rio Vista into a cultural, educational, and economic cornerstone for the region; the campus will remind future generations of the immeasurable contributions made by braceros to the growth and prosperity of the country; and WHEREAS, Understanding the places that shaped our past fosters wisdom for building a brighter future, and the revitalization of Rio Vista Farm is elevating a legacy that should never be forgotten; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas Legislature hereby honor Rio Vista Farm on the occasion of National Historic Preservation Month and commend all those involved in the revitalization initiative for their dedicated efforts; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the City of Socorro as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Gonz lez of El Paso Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1153 was adopted by the House on May 23, 2025, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House