This is a quick spotlight on one of the integral leaders for labor protection rights of farm workers. Larry Itliong is not necessarily a household name and may not be the first person one thinks of when thinking about this time period but he was a true trailblazer and deserves so much more recognition. There were many abuses against these labor workers that lasted for decades. It took unity among Filipinos, Mexicans and other persons of color to make lasting change--many strikes and protests organized--and not all were successful. If you're at all curious about this time period, please look it up. It's a fascinating history and a reason for Filipino Americans to hold their heads up high.
I'm so proud of the Manongs of Delano, the Filipino American leaders who fought hard for the rights of the labor workers and are pretty much a forgotten part of history. It's up to us to keep their legacy alive and to continue to tell their story to present and future generations.
Please read:
We Are Not Your Model Minority or Your Punching Bag: Why Asian Americans Are Hurting and Why You Should Care
...a powerful essay touching upon the harmful model minority myth and a call to action to stop all the Asian and Pacific Islander hate that is happening.
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