Movimiento Poder was born out of a struggle at Valverde Elementary School in Denver where parents removed a principal who refused to stop the practice of forcing Mexicano children to eat their lunches from the cafeteria floor as a form of punishment. In 1992, after a year of organizing and successfully replacing the administrative leadership at Valverde, parents determined that it was necessary to
build off of their experience and work with other parents in dealing with similar issues within Denver Public Schools. Parents from all over the district were calling Valverde parents for guidance, advice and support. With no office, staff, or money, Movimiento Poder was formed by parents willing to organize for educational justice, equity and excellence in Denver Public Schools. Movimiento Poder is led by working-class Latine immigrants, youth, women, and families, and builds power through community organizing, leadership development and civic engagement. is led by working-class Latine immigrants, youth, women, and families, and builds power through community organizing, leadership development and civic engagement.
