Diana Orozco
(25 pages)
Listen to the interview
Biography:
Justice of the peace, attorney. Born 1960. Graduate of St. Mary's College in Indiana and Southern Methodist University Law School (1985). The first Mexican American woman elected justice of the peace in Dallas County, Orozco was elected in 1994 to Precinct 6, Place 1 (Oak Cliff). She began her first term in January 1995 and was re-elected in 1996.
Interview Summary:
The primary focus of the interview is on Orozco's work as justice of the peace in Oak Cliff (Dallas, Texas). Orozco describes what she does as J.P. and her commitment to her work, and also discusses campaigning for office and the compensation of justices of the peace. She recalls her selection and experience as a delegate to the 1988 and 1992 Democratic national conventions, and talks about redistricting in Dallas County and her views about racial prejudice and its effects on people. Orozco relates her memories of the riot in Dallas following the death of Santos RodrÃguez in police custody. She mentions her college experience and her choice of SMU for law school, and talks about her relationship with Adelfa Callejo. In conclusion, Orozco expresses her opinion of Aurelio Castillo's actions in office and of the importance of having leaders of integrity, regardless of ethnicity.
Locations of residence or activity:
Dallas
Interview Date:
2/13/1998