Richard J. Gonzales writes novels and non-fiction books about Latino history and culture. He has written hundreds of articles on Latino topics for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram as a columnist. His books were published by University of North Texas Press and Sleeping Panther Press. He has BA in English and Master of Science in Social Work, both from the University of Texas at Arlington. He is a licensed master social worker in Texas. He has spoken extensively about Latino history, culture, politics, and economic issues impacting the Latino community. The National Association of Social Work North Texas chapter honored him with the Public Citizen of the Year for 2026 award for his community work, advocacy, and writing. He is bilingual (Spanish-English), bicultural, and a third-generation Chicano. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, and has lived in North Texas more than 50 years.