About Us
Our building was originally constructed in 1917 and was completed in the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture style in 1931.
In 1970, La Casa de la Raza became a center for the Chicano and Latinx communities to access resources about the United Farm Workers, the Brown Berets, the Crusade for Justice, La Raza Unida, and many more movements.
Today, it stands as Santa Barbara’s first Latinx City Landmark, a testament to its long-standing influence on the local community and its enduring legacy in Mexican-American culture.
As we look back on the history of Casa de la Raza, we honor the dedication of community leaders and activists who have made it a vibrant and essential part of Santa Barbara’s cultural landscape. Today, La Casa de la Raza continues to thrive as a beacon of hope, resilience, and solidarity for future generations.
Our Community Organizations
Community organizations that have started with the help of La Casa de la Raza:
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Teatro de la Esperanza
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Theater company specializing in political street theater and protests that arose during the Chicano Theatre Movement in the 70s
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Community bike shop offering bikes, parts, volunteer opportunities, and donation centers
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Casa Esperanza Homeless Center
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Providing food, shelter, social, and medical resources to homeless in Santa Barbara
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Historic
Preservation
The founding members of this historical center and cultural movement continue to care for our community by maintaining careful protection of the newly established La Casa Founders Holding Company.
The building was purchased in 2020, was moved through a historic preservation process, and became a designated historical landmark.
We are established with the Secretary of State as a 501.C3 organization.
View our Historic Landmark Designation Report prepared by Nicole Hernandez, MFA, City Architectural Historian
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