Viva La Justicia

Why Labor Day Matters

“The great social justice changes in our country have happened when people came together, organized, and took direct action.” — Dolores Huerta

Labor Day began as a demand for dignity on the job. Today, we honor the workers who keep our communities thriving—especially Latine and immigrant workers across California’s Central Valley and beyond.

Labor Day is more than a long weekend. It is a reminder that safer workplaces, the 8‑hour day, and fair pay came from workers standing together. It is also a call to keep organizing until every worker—no matter their immigration status, language, or zip code—can live and work with dignity.

Our Central Valley Story

The Central Valley has always been a heart of the labor movement. Farmworkers—Filipino, Mexican, and multiracial—led historic strikes and boycotts that changed the nation. Dolores Huerta helped pass landmark protections for agricultural workers and continues to organize with our communities today through the Dolores Huerta Foundation.

Remembering Texas: Nearly 60 Years Ago

This year, we also reflect on the legacy of the 1966–1967 Starr County melon strike and boycott in Texas (pictured above), when farmworkers demanded higher wages and fair treatment. Their courage and sacrifice became part of a larger wave of organizing that connected the struggles of workers across state lines.

Today, as we witness new challenges in Texas—particularly efforts that restrict voting access and silence communities—we stand in solidarity with the people of Texas. Their fight for justice echoes the same spirit of unity and determination that has fueled the labor and civil rights movements for generations.

The Dolores Huerta Foundation remains committed to ensuring every person has the opportunity to be heard, to participate, and to organize for a just and inclusive democracy.

A Renewed Commitment

In honor of Labor Day, DHF renews our commitment to:

• Deep listening. We center the voices of workers, youth, and families to shape goals and solutions.
• Base‑building and leadership development. We train and support neighborhood leaders through Vecinos Unidos and our youth programs.
• Connecting people to resources. From health and safety to education equity and civic engagement, we help families navigate services that strengthen our communities.
• Workplace justice and civic power. Together we register voters, hold leaders accountable, and organize for policies that protect everyone—on the job, at school, and in our neighborhoods.
• Inclusive organizing. We engage across language, culture, gender identity, and immigration status. Everyone belongs in this movement.

Take Action Today

• Join a Vecinos Unidos meeting in your neighborhood.
• Become a monthly sustainer and fuel year‑round organizing.
• Volunteer to help canvass or share materials.
• Share this post and uplift workers’ stories in your own networks.

A Note of Gratitude

To the custodians, caregivers, farmworkers, teachers, nurses, warehouse workers, restaurant staff, drivers, and countless others: thank you. Your labor keeps our communities going. We see you. We honor you. And we will keep organizing with you.

¡Sí, se puede!