In this important work Russ Davidson presents the first biography of Joaquín Ortega, introducing readers to Ortega's life and work at the University of New Mexico as well as his close relationship with then UNM president James Zimmerman and other major figures. More than biography, Davidson's study closely examines the complex relationship UNM has had with Latin America as well as with the Hispanic community in New Mexico and that community's struggles to have equal representation of culture and education within an Anglo-dominated university and state in the first half of the twentieth century. Ortega's efforts played a significant role in UNM's evolution into a culturally diverse place of learning, and his story overlays the history of how ethnic groups began to work together to incorporate Latin American, Pan-American, New Mexican, and borderland studies into the educational fabric of the university at a pivotal time. This long-overdue volume is an illuminating look at the rich and complex history of the university and the communities it serves.

New Mexico cultural envoy Juan Estevan Arellano, to whom this work is dedicated, writes that querencia “is that which gives us a sense of place, that which anchors us to the land, that which makes us a unique people, for it implies a deeply rooted knowledge of place, and for that reason we respect it as our home.” This sentiment is echoed in the foreword by Rudolfo Anaya, in which he writes that “querencia is love of home, love of place.” This collection of both deeply personal reflections and carefully researched studies explores the New Mexico homeland through the experiences and perspectives of Chicanx and indigenous/Genízaro writers and scholars from across the state. The importance of querencia for each contributor is apparent in their work and their ongoing studies, which have roots in the culture, history, literature, and popular media of New Mexico. Be inspired and enlightened by these essays and discover the history and belonging that is querencia.

Kopecky's journals take us back to the beginnings of New Buffalo, one of the most successful of the communes that dotted the country in the 1960s and 1970s, where he and his comrades encountered magic, wisdom, a mix of people, the Peyote Church, planting, and hard winters.

The New Mexico difference -- The roots of dependence -- The mystique of the village -- Assault on Arcadia -- The New Mexico, Mexico, new deal connection -- Federal relief comes to New Mexico -- Implementing the cultural agenda -- Restoring village lands -- The final years and later -- Reprise.