The 1960 Civil Rights Era inspired activism by marginalized Chicanos who have been historically excluded from higher education in America. In the early 70s, the defacing of the racially controversial Three Peoples mural at the University of New Mexico’s (UNM) Zimmerman Library sparked a local fight for social justice and demands for Chicano Education Reform at UNM. The ensuing movement broke down educational and representational barriers, served as a regional and national model for Chicano Education, and empowered the Chicano community.