Brett T. Olmsted, author of Making Michigan Home: Mexican Americans Bridging the Rural-Urban Experience, answers questions about his new book.

Q: Why did you decide to write this book?

I was driving north on Interstate 75 through Detroit, Michigan and saw an exit sign for Mexicantown. Having lived in the state for 28 years, I never knew there was such a large concentration of Latinx in the state, let alone one large enough to warrant their own exit sign. Having visited Mexicantown numerous times thereafter, I fell in love with learning a history I was never taught in Michigan schools. Then, in graduate school, I found a seemingly random quote in the Congressional Transcripts of a Michigan Representative saying 3000 “Mexicans” descended on a small rural Michigan town, one I was not familiar with.  Upon investigation it proved a gross exaggeration, but it further piqued my interest. In short, I wanted to write the history I was never taught.

Q: What is the most interesting discovery you made while researching and writing your book?

The most interesting discovery was that Mexican Americans participated in the UAW Sit-Down Strike; a fact that got me scoffed at when I mentioned it at the Walter Reuther Library.

Q: What myths do you hope your book will dispel or what do you hope your book will help readers unlearn?

The most important myth I want to dispel is that Mexicans and Mexican Americans are outsiders to the state/region. They have long been in Michigan and have played a vital role in shaping the state and region. Secondly, I want readers to unlearn that Mexicanos are just transient, exploitable migrants, but rather are neighbors that contribute and bring value to their cities, towns, and workplaces (as opposed to “stealing” jobs)

Q: Which part of the publishing process did you find the most interesting?

The length of time it takes, especially the review process.

Q: What is your advice to scholars/authors who want to take on a similar project?

Oral histories can make for a much richer experience and are vital, but should not be done at the exclusion of archival work.  Also, find something that intrigues and inspires you, because then the writing can convey that enthusiasm.

Q: What do you like to read/watch/or listen to for fun?

I love movies and consider myself a cinephile. I love all genres and like to find the artistic value, the enjoyment, and the background of each movie I watch, no matter the critical and fan reaction.

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