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Ilan StavansAuthor of Cesar Chavez: An Organizer's Tale and Cesar Chavez: A Photographic Essay
Lewis-Sebring Professor Latin American and Latino Culture Amherst College Email Interview:
February 10, 2014 |
1. What beliefs and/or teachings inspired Cesar Chavez to form the United Farm Workers Union?
"He believed fair payment and working conditions, aside from respect as people, are inherent human rights and Mexican and Filipino farm workers in the sixties were being abused. A leader was needed and fortunately Cesar Chavez stepped in."
2. How has Cesar Chavez's contributions affected both farm workers and society?
"He gave them dignity. More than that, he convinced them they had self-worth. That attitude changed them forever. Chavez believed racism is endemic to our society. The best way to confront it is face on, without subterfuges."
3. What are the challenges farm workers face in our modern-day society?
"The situation has improved but basic conditions still lag behind other industries. We must remember that in order to be the best, freest country in the world, the United States needs to treat us all--without distinction--the same way. If only one of us is mistreated, the entire nation falters.
4. How has the state and federal government recognized the efforts of Cesar Chavez?
"He is celebrated as a national figure. His face appears in stamps, posters, and textbooks. In certain parts of the country, his birthday is commemorated as a national holiday. However, his standing as a decisive figure in United States history is questionable because while people recognize his face, they do not understand his legacy. There is much for us to do in terms of education. Chavez's mission is unfinished. There are still farm and other workers in the country who aren't treated as equals."
"Lillian and Shilpa, I salute your effort. Wishing you much success."
"He believed fair payment and working conditions, aside from respect as people, are inherent human rights and Mexican and Filipino farm workers in the sixties were being abused. A leader was needed and fortunately Cesar Chavez stepped in."
2. How has Cesar Chavez's contributions affected both farm workers and society?
"He gave them dignity. More than that, he convinced them they had self-worth. That attitude changed them forever. Chavez believed racism is endemic to our society. The best way to confront it is face on, without subterfuges."
3. What are the challenges farm workers face in our modern-day society?
"The situation has improved but basic conditions still lag behind other industries. We must remember that in order to be the best, freest country in the world, the United States needs to treat us all--without distinction--the same way. If only one of us is mistreated, the entire nation falters.
4. How has the state and federal government recognized the efforts of Cesar Chavez?
"He is celebrated as a national figure. His face appears in stamps, posters, and textbooks. In certain parts of the country, his birthday is commemorated as a national holiday. However, his standing as a decisive figure in United States history is questionable because while people recognize his face, they do not understand his legacy. There is much for us to do in terms of education. Chavez's mission is unfinished. There are still farm and other workers in the country who aren't treated as equals."
"Lillian and Shilpa, I salute your effort. Wishing you much success."