Rename the El Paso Downtown Library in honor of Leon Metz

Recent signers:
Melody Kelsey and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Leon Metz inspired much of my work as a historian and filmmaker. His books and storytelling shaped how many of us understand the Borderland. This is personal to me because my mission continues the path he opened for El Paso storytellers. Honoring him is a way for our community to say our history matters, we matter, and that the people who preserve it matter too.

Leon Metz was more than a historian; he was the voice of the Borderland's rich history and culture. Through his numerous books, lectures, and storytelling, Leon brought El Paso's past to life, sharing stories of frontier battles, saloons, and personalities that defined the region. His work has captured the essence of the Borderland's vibrant heritage, reaching thousands and ensuring that our stories are never forgotten.

By renaming the El Paso Downtown Library in Leon Metz's honor, we would be paying tribute to a man who dedicated his life to preserving our local history. This would not only serve as a fitting reminder of Leon's invaluable contributions but also inspire future generations to appreciate and engage with the cultural and historical narratives of our region.

El Paso's history is unique and complex, interwoven with diverse cultures and rich in stories that deserve to be told. By honoring Leon Metz, we signal the importance of recognizing and preserving our local history and acknowledging those who have made significant efforts to share it with the world.

Furthermore, the library is a beacon of knowledge and learning in our community, making it the ideal place to celebrate someone who spent their life educating others about our past. It would serve as a permanent reminder of the importance of local historians and storytellers in shaping our identity and preserving our legacy.

Join me in asking the City of El Paso and the El Paso Public Library to rename the El Paso Downtown Library as "Leon Metz Library" in honor of his contributions. Let's celebrate our past, inspire our future, and ensure our rich history continues to be shared. Your signature can help make this change. Please sign the petition to honor Leon Metz and preserve his legacy for generations to come.|

Images from the internet courtesy of El Paso times, the Digie.org and the family/ 

avatar of the starter
Caleb LaraPetition StarterHistorian, filmmaker, Storyteller and founder of Elevate El Paso, I also lead Builders of the Desert, a nonprofit focused on preserving and teaching the history of the Borderlands.

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Recent signers:
Melody Kelsey and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Leon Metz inspired much of my work as a historian and filmmaker. His books and storytelling shaped how many of us understand the Borderland. This is personal to me because my mission continues the path he opened for El Paso storytellers. Honoring him is a way for our community to say our history matters, we matter, and that the people who preserve it matter too.

Leon Metz was more than a historian; he was the voice of the Borderland's rich history and culture. Through his numerous books, lectures, and storytelling, Leon brought El Paso's past to life, sharing stories of frontier battles, saloons, and personalities that defined the region. His work has captured the essence of the Borderland's vibrant heritage, reaching thousands and ensuring that our stories are never forgotten.

By renaming the El Paso Downtown Library in Leon Metz's honor, we would be paying tribute to a man who dedicated his life to preserving our local history. This would not only serve as a fitting reminder of Leon's invaluable contributions but also inspire future generations to appreciate and engage with the cultural and historical narratives of our region.

El Paso's history is unique and complex, interwoven with diverse cultures and rich in stories that deserve to be told. By honoring Leon Metz, we signal the importance of recognizing and preserving our local history and acknowledging those who have made significant efforts to share it with the world.

Furthermore, the library is a beacon of knowledge and learning in our community, making it the ideal place to celebrate someone who spent their life educating others about our past. It would serve as a permanent reminder of the importance of local historians and storytellers in shaping our identity and preserving our legacy.

Join me in asking the City of El Paso and the El Paso Public Library to rename the El Paso Downtown Library as "Leon Metz Library" in honor of his contributions. Let's celebrate our past, inspire our future, and ensure our rich history continues to be shared. Your signature can help make this change. Please sign the petition to honor Leon Metz and preserve his legacy for generations to come.|

Images from the internet courtesy of El Paso times, the Digie.org and the family/ 

avatar of the starter
Caleb LaraPetition StarterHistorian, filmmaker, Storyteller and founder of Elevate El Paso, I also lead Builders of the Desert, a nonprofit focused on preserving and teaching the history of the Borderlands.

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Petition created on December 9, 2025