Martinez v. State of New Mexico: The Right to a Sufficient Education

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Abstract

This presentation provides a brief legal history on the foundation for Martinez v. State of New Mexico. The state is unique in its constitutional protection for a sufficient education, Hispanic Education, Indian Education, and bilingual/multicultural education. The legal history demonstrates the value of the heritage, culture and Spanish language in New Mexico and sets precedent for protection of Native American cultures and languages. The plaintiffs claim their constitutional and legal rights to a sufficient education have been violated.

Author

• E. Diane Torres-Velasquez, University of New Mexico