Carlos M. Gaxiola, consul of Mexico in Salt Lake City from 1925 to 1930, took decisive actions during his years in Utah to protect and promote the interests of his fellow Mexicans. His efforts included appearing in court to advocate for Mexicans wrongly arrested for vagrancy, speaking about trade possibilities with Mexico, and sending letters to the Salt Lake Tribune in defense of his compatriots.1 Gaxiola also conducted much of what might be called cultural diplomacy—such as introducing Spanish classes in reading circles for women, bringing illustrated Mexican history lectures to high schools, and hosting local officials at a Mexican theatrical performance. On one occasion, he spoke to the University of Utah's Spanish Club about Mexican traditional clothing, music, and dance, with the assistance of his daughters, who wore china poblana and tehuana dresses to the event.2
Cultural diplomacy, as explained by Alberto Fierro Garza, is an instrument...
