Advocate for Equality for Mexican Americans

In 1971, Vasquez supported the early efforts to obtain private funding to start the Corpus Christi Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC). This non-profit organization was established to meet the needs of minority businesses. Vasquez and his colleagues contributed by conducting seminars sponsored by the CCEDC, and the Coastal Bend Minority Contractors Association.

In 1982, Arturo Vasquez and Company, CPA, applied for a pilot program as the first for-profit business in Corpus Christi, to contract with the Department of Commerce - Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), to operate the Minority Business Development Center (MBDC). The mission of MBDC was to develop new minority businesses, and assist existing businesses. Vasquez’s firm donated over two thousand working hours organizing, selecting, training personnel, and implementing an accounting system to comply with regulations.

The MBDC of Corpus Christi provided counseling, and guidance in loan applications with local banks, lending institutions, or SBA loans. Assistance was provided in the preparation of bid documents, bond documents, project cost, and management analysis on construction and service projects.

Dr. Hector P. Garcia's American GI Forum

Vasquez became a member of Dr. Garcia’s American G. I. Forum (AGIF) in 1948. He was part of the original organizing members in forming AGIF with its founder, Dr. Garcia. After Vasquez graduated in 1949 with a Bachelor of Business Administration, he moved to Corpus Christi to be a part of Dr. Garcia’s civil rights movement. He was deeply involved in working towards equality for Mexican American civil and veteran’s rights. As Secretary of AGIF, he assisted in organizing the AGIF chapters in Texas, and outside of Texas, served as Dr. Garcia’s right-hand man, and was financial adviser to the AGIF. Vasquez was the organization’s first National Executive Secretary, and was involved with creating the AGIF logo. Vasquez was also a member of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and served as their National Treasurer.

Arturo Vasquez, with younger children at the American Legion, Fourth of July Celebration at Sherrill Park, 1971. Arturo Vasquez spoke at event as Post Commander of Gragg-Sherrill Post 248.

Arturo Vasquez and family with State Senator Carlos Truan at the State Capitol. Vasquez was recognized for his civic service, on May 25, 1981. Carlos Truan was the author of Senate Resolution, S. R. No. 730.

Photo of Arturo Vasquez and U. S. Representative Solomon P. Ortiz with a note of appreciation from U. S. Representative Ortiz.

Arturo Vasquez and U. S. Representative Solomon P. Ortiz discussing social issues.

Arturo Vasquez, John Quinones, ABC Correspondent, and Marie Vasquez at a ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting) convention. Orlando, Florida, August 2002.

Photo of Co-founders of ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting). Joe Pacheco and wife, Arturo Vasquez, and Frances Garcia.

Co-founders of ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting). Joe Pacheco and wife, Arturo Vasquez, and Frances Garcia (Washington D. C., Inspector General).

Arturo Vasquez and Simon R. Ortiz, Minority Business Development Center (MBDC) of Corpus Christi, with Mayor Luther Jones, who is presenting MBDC a proclamation for assisting minority businesses in the Corpus Christi area, 1984.

Arturo Vasquez with Mayor Luther Jones, holding proclamation in his hand, and Simon R. Ortiz, (light tan suit) Acting Director of MBDC of Corpus Christi, talking to Mayor Jones, 1984.