By Shelley Kofler, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-840391.mp3
Austin, TX – Gov. Rick Perry today signed a bill authorizing the construction and placement of a Tejano monument on the state capitol grounds.
Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, (D) San Antonio, said it's taken elected officials and citizens eight years to gain approval and to raise money for construction.
Fischer: "The Tejano monument is an important piece of history but it is not just Tejano history. It is American history," Martinez Fischer said. "With the enactment of this monument on our historic capitol grounds Tejanos for generations to come will witness for themselves our history will not be forgotten."
The sculpture commemorates early Spanish-Mexican heritage in Texas and consists of an oval, granite base that supports 11 bronze sculptures. The life-sized images created by Laredo artist Armando Hinojosa include a Tejano on horseback, several family members, a Spanish explorer, a mustang pony and a longhorn.