César Chávez and Dolores Huerta Student Poster Contest 2023
On April 8th, 2023, the community came together to honor the legacy of two remarkable civil rights icons - Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta - through a student poster contest. The contest not only encouraged students to learn more about these influential figures but also allowed them to showcase their artistic talents while paying tribute to the important work Chavez and Huerta did to protect the rights of farmworkers during their time.
The contest, which was open to students from all across the community, sparked widespread participation from schools and educational institutions. Students delved into the lives and achievements of Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, who were prominent leaders in the United Farm Workers (UFW) movement in the 1960s and 1970s. Chavez, a Mexican-American labor leader and civil rights activist, co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers, to fight for better wages, working conditions, and improved rights for farmworkers. Dolores Huerta, a renowned labor leader and civil rights activist, co-founded the UFW alongside Chavez and played a pivotal role in organizing labor strikes, advocating for gender equality, and championing the rights of farmworkers.
The students' artwork reflected their deep understanding of Chavez and Huerta's contributions to the civil rights movement. Through their creativity, they showcased the struggles and triumphs of farmworkers and the impact of Chavez and Huerta's work. The posters featured powerful images, including depictions of farmworkers in the fields and portraits of Chavez and Huerta.
The awards celebration also featured a special guest speaker, Dr. Luz Garza, who serves as the Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Columbia Basin College. Dr. Garza, a Latina native from Sunnyside, Washington, shared her inspiring journey with the parents and students in attendance. She spoke passionately about her own experiences as a farmworker and how she overcame challenges to pursue higher education. Her presence added a meaningful and empowering touch to the event, further emphasizing the significance of Chavez and Huerta's legacy and the ongoing fight for equity and inclusion in all areas of society, including higher education.
The student poster contest was not only a celebration of the artistic talents of the young generation but also a reminder of the importance of preserving the legacy of civil rights icons like Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta. Their fight for social justice, equality, and fair treatment of farmworkers serves as an inspiration for generations to come. Through this contest, students were able to learn about their contributions and create artwork that paid homage to their enduring legacy.
