Description
This collection comprises fliers, reports, newsletters, photographs, bumper stickers, and ephemera compiled for use at the
United Farm Workers Organizing Committee (UFWOC) Information Fair held in San Fernando, California in 1969. The collection
is particularly strong in documenting the United Farm Workers (UFW) trade union and its formation; UFW-organized boycotts
and strikes, including the Delano Grape Strike from 1965 to 1966; and the working and living conditions of migrant agricultural
laborers. Other files document the economic and legal aspects of farm labor, ties between churches and the farm labor movement,
and the effect of pesticides on farm laborers. Approximately ten photographs by unidentified photographers depict UFW founder
and president Cesar Chavez and others at rallies; agricultural laborers, including children, at work; migrant camps; and medical
and dental clinics for laborers.
Background
The California farm labor movement began in the 1960s when the United Farm Workers Organizing Committee began unionizing California
farm workers. The National Farm Workers Association was founded by Cesar Chavez, and later became the United Farm Workers
of America (UFW). In 1968 Chavez launched a boycott of California table grape growers and was successful in mobilizing consumer
support throughout the United States. In 1970 the UFW, with Chavez as president, became a member union of the AFL-CIO. Chavez
made people across the country aware of the struggles of farm workers for better pay and safer living conditions and succeeded
by using nonviolent tactics including boycotts, fasting, pickets, and strikes.
Extent
2.6 Linear Feet
(4 boxes and 2 oversize folders)
Restrictions
Property rights reside with the University of California. Copyrights are retained by the creators of the records and their
heirs. For permission to reproduce or to publish, please contact the Head of Special Collections and Archives.
Availability
The collection is open for research.