Photo on the left, my father and his brother supporting the Farm Workers in Austin, at the end of the march.
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The document details the history, struggles, and activism of farm workers in Starr County, Texas, with a focus on union efforts and social justice.
Economic Disparities and Land Conditions
- Farm workers earned $0.50/hour, significantly lower than industrial wages of $4.50-$6.00/hour.
- Starr County’s 1960 median income was under $1,000 annually; 70% earned less than $3,000.
- 22% of adults were illiterate; average schooling was less than 6.7 years, compared to 10.8 years in California.
- The county is impoverished and isolated, with minimal industry besides oil and gas.
The Farm Workers Strike and Organizing Efforts
- Initiated in May 1966, demanding $1.25/hour and collective bargaining rights.
- Over 400 workers voted to strike; wages ranged from 40¢ to 85¢ per hour.
- Major growers like La Casita Farms refused to recognize the union, with some bragging that they preferred crops to rot.
- The strike involved marches, rallies, and international solidarity efforts, including cross-border picketing with Mexico.
- Union leaders like Eugene Nelson and Tony Orendain led efforts; the union merged into UFW.
- The strike faced violent repression, arrests, and intimidation, including Texas Rangers’ intervention.
- Some victories included recognition of Virgilio Guerra and new labor rulings, but the harvest continued with strikebreakers.
- The U.S. Senate held hearings in 1967 to advocate for farm workers’ rights under the National Labor Relations Act.
- Despite challenges, union efforts persisted, emphasizing the need for legal protections and justice.
- The movement called for national support, donations, and continued activism to achieve farm workers’ rights.