This site combines the work by Rubén Martínez, his books and articles, his music, documentaries and performances, and his blog. You can contact Rubén, see his appearance in the media via his bio+ page.
Rubén’s new book, Desert America is now available. You can read excerpts online (see Desert America for more info).
NEW! Sneak Preview of KCET-TV’s Broadcast of “The Ballad of Ricardo Flores Magón” (see “Variedades” for more info).
An Essay on Ricardo Flores Magón, the Anarchist that Binds L.A. and Mexico City
It is no coincidence that Ricardo Flores Magón wound up in the City of Angels. Even though it is over 100 miles from the US-Mexico line, … Read more
Blood and Sand: Making the Victims Visible
I have spent the last several weeks working with the Movimiento por la Paz con Justicia y Dignidad (MPJD) (Movement for Justice with Peace and Dignity), led by Mexican poet, essayist, and novelist … Read more
Latino Americans are Taking a Different Path
New York Times, November 16, 2012
The question posed is one I’ve been wrestling with the better part of my life. I am the son and grandson of immigrants from Mexico and El … Read more
América Tropical as seen from the new viewing platform on Olvera Street
Late Thursday afternoon I park in the lot alongside Our Lady Queen of the Angels Church, whose overwrought colonial name is La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora la Reina … Read more
Los Angeles Times, December 09, 2011
Shortly before Occupy L.A. was evicted from the City Hall grounds, I noticed a sign at the corner of … Read more
“The Other Side” used to be the name that Mexicans and Central Americans gave to California and points north. As envisioned by Martinez in this work of cultural reportage and personal memoir, “the other side” designates other frontiers as well. … Read more