doi:10.7916/d8-ksn0-yb20Oral history interview with Matteo "Flukie" Suarez, 1999Suarez, Matteooral historiesmixed materialCivil rights movements--History--20th century.--United StatesCivil rights demonstrations--United StatesCivil rights workers--History--20th century.--United StatesUnited States Race relations 20th centuryNew Orleans (La.) HistorySuarez, MatteoCongress of Racial EqualityIn this interview with Sheila Michaels, Matteo "Flukie" Suarez discusses his activities with the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). He starts by describing his family and community life growing up in life New Orleans, Louisiana's Seventh Ward, including an analysis of the relationship between Blacks, whites, and Creoles in the city. Suarez discusses the impact segregation had on his adolescence, and how this led him to enlist in the Navy. Suarez relates his introduction to the CORE and overcoming his skepticism about its nonviolent tactics. Suarez details his involvement in campaigns and projects in several cities including: Atlanta, Montgomery, Birmingham, Greenwood, Tougaloo, Canton, and Greenville. He recounts the trip to Meridian, Mississippi, and speaks about the murders of James Earl Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner. Suarez gives his thoughts on CORE's stance on the Vietnam War and James (Jim) Farmer's statement on it. He also discusses his resignation from CORE, and subsequent efforts to revive the New Orleans Chapter of CORE. Last, Suarez discusses his work after CORE, which includes consulting, political activity, and the creation and ongoing operation of the Rainbow Academy and Preschool from 1973 onwards.