Hank Olguin’s memoir proposes that we all may be more alike than different as Americans.
CAMANO ISLAND, WA, April 21, 2020 /Neptune100/ — When former advertising executive and creative director, Hank Olguin, began writing his memoir, Who Let the Mexicans Play in the Rose Bowl? Navigating the Racial Landscape of America (available on Amazon), his intended audience included only family, close friends, and associates. Influenced by recent racially charged events, he decided to tell his story to a broader audience in the hope of counteracting stereotypes, fostering understanding, and bringing people together.
While respecting the value and contributions of recent immigrants, the book underscores the long-standing presence of Latinos and Latinas in the United States. Olguin’s grandfather crossed the border in the late 19th century and his father was born in New Mexico in 1893. The narrative easily qualifies as an American story. Olguin trusts readers will gain insight into the challenges Hispanics/Latinx face in overcoming negative racial perceptions and playing a greater mainstream role in the life of the nation.
In recounting his life’s journey, Olguin talks about the thrill of playing in the Rose Bowl for the University of California and his successful career in advertising. He also includes anecdotes of valuable mentors, friends, family members, and colleagues, of all races and backgrounds, that crossed his path—even some famous like Selena, Stacy Keach, and rock band The Doors.
Among other endorsements, the following demonstrates an early reaction to the book.
… a spell-binding account…an insightful, often humorous look at the twists and turns of being of Mexican ancestry in the modern United States…required reading for anyone interested in an analysis of Latino identity…
—Kevin R. Johnson, Dean, UC Davis School of Law—Author of How Did You Get to Be Mexican?—A White/Brown Man’s Search for Racial Identity
About the author: Hank Olguin has enjoyed a long and varied career, most of it devoted to the advertising and marketing/communications fields. He has written and produced countless advertising vehicles, including dozens of TV and radio commercials; won numerous advertising awards, including two Clios; and written songs for Sesame Street. As an advertising professional, he understands the power of brand images and has been on a mission to change the negative images and stereotypes of Mexicans and other Latinos/as for decades. He holds a degree in Rhetoric from the University of California at Berkeley where he earned letters in football and track & field.
Learn more at: www.americanmexicanstories.com
HANK OLGUIN
408-605-2514
[email protected]
