Clotilde Pérez García

Mexican-American physician and community leader

Clotilde Pérez García (April 13, 1917 – December 18, 2003) was a pioneering Mexican-American physician and community leader. She was one of the first Mexican-American women to earn a medical degree in the United States and was a prominent advocate for healthcare access and civil rights.

Early Life and Education

Clotilde Pérez García was born in Laredo, Texas, to José García and Clotilde Pérez. Her parents were immigrants from Mexico, and her father was a well-known physician in the community. Inspired by her father's dedication to medicine and public service, Clotilde pursued a career in healthcare.

She attended Laredo High School, where she excelled academically. After graduating, she enrolled at Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Clotilde then attended the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, where she received her medical degree in 1940.

Medical Career

Clotilde Pérez García in 1951

After completing her medical degree, Dr. García returned to Laredo to join her father's medical practice. She quickly became known for her compassionate care and dedication to her patients, many of whom were from underserved communities. Dr. García specialized in family medicine and was particularly focused on maternal and child health.

In addition to her medical practice, Dr. García was actively involved in public health initiatives. She worked to improve healthcare access for Mexican-American communities and advocated for better health education and preventive care.

Community Leadership

Dr. García was a prominent figure in the Mexican-American civil rights movement. She was a founding member of the American GI Forum, an organization dedicated to securing equal rights for Hispanic veterans. Her work with the forum helped to address issues such as educational inequality and discrimination in healthcare.

She also played a key role in the establishment of the Laredo Independent School District's health services program, which provided medical care and health education to students. Dr. García's efforts were instrumental in improving the health and well-being of countless children in the community.

Legacy

Dr. Clotilde Pérez García's contributions to medicine and civil rights have left a lasting impact on her community and beyond. She is remembered as a trailblazer who broke barriers for women and minorities in the medical field. Her dedication to service and advocacy continues to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals and community leaders.

Related Pages

• American GI Forum
• University of Texas Medical Branch
• Laredo, Texas