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Historical Landmarks
2025 ENDANGERED LATINX LANDMARKS 

2025 ENDANGERED LATINX LANDMARKS 

Chicago, Illinois

Our Lady of Guadalupe Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Mural

Year Built:

1970

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Mural, painted in 1970 in South Chicago, is one of the nation's oldest murals dedicated to the Vietnam War. It honors 12 fallen parishioners from the church and is a powerful tribute from and for the Latinx community. The mural features individual portraits, a depiction of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and a poem, embodying the deep connection between Mexican American culture and military sacrifice. Unfortunately, environmental exposure has severely damaged the mural. Preservation efforts are now underway to protect this historic and living testament to the community’s heritage and enduring legacy.


"The Our Lady of Guadalupe Vietnam Memorial Mural is more than paint on a wall—it is a sacred testament to sacrifice, resilience, and identity. For over fifty years, it has been the heart of The South Chicago community, where families gather to honor loved ones and veterans find healing." — Fred Carrizales, Member, South East Side Vietnam Veterans


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