SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 33

In Memory

of

Arnold García

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Austin in mourning the loss of Arnold García, who died August 12, 2021, at the age of 73; and

WHEREAS, This esteemed Texan and trailblazing journalist came from humble beginnings, and he built a life of great reward and purpose as a journalist, editor, civil rights advocate, mentor, and father; and

WHEREAS, The grandson of Mexican immigrants, Arnold García was born on February 25, 1948, and he grew up in San Angelo; he served with distinction in the United States Army and earned the rank of sergeant, and he later served as a captain in the National Guard; he began his career in journalism working as a police reporter for the San Angelo Standard Times while still a student at Angelo State University; and

WHEREAS, Arnold was hired by the Austin American-Statesman as a courtroom reporter when he was 26 years old; he went on to run the newspaper's Metro desk and to become a popular political columnist before serving as the newspaper's editorial page editor, a position he held for more than two decades; and

WHEREAS, Mr. García was known for his vast network of sources, from barrio locals to boardroom members to esteemed politicians; he was an authentic voice for Austin culture and a mentor to many journalists of color in a time when few doors were open to Hispanic or Black news professionals; his work often honored veterans and members of the armed forces and pushed for accountability and affordability in local government; and

WHEREAS, One of his greatest accomplishments was his success in having the Austin community honor and memorialize Heman Sweatt, a civil rights activist and the plaintiff in Sweatt v. Painter, the historic case that challenged Jim Crow-era laws and was tried by Thurgood Marshall at what is known today as the Heman Marion Sweatt Travis County Courthouse in downtown Austin; and

WHEREAS, Arnold García was known for his gentle wisdom, his kind spirit, and his uncompromising integrity in news publishing; he was a devoted father and a cherished friend to many, and he leaves behind a proud legacy of service that will continue to inspire journalists and citizens long into the future; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, 2nd Called Session, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Arnold García; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Arnold García.

Eckhardt

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on August 23, 2021, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate