Trudy Jacobson Presents Great American Women of History: Dolores Huerta

Dolores stood up during a time when countless farmworkers needed help the most, creating lasting change to improve working conditions for future generations.

Dolores Huerta is a remarkable figure whose life has been a testament to the power of perseverance and a fierce commitment to justice. She has advocated for farmworkers’ rights and fought for social and economic equality.

One of Huerta’s most significant accomplishments is her co-founding the United Farm Workers (UFW) union alongside Cesar Chavez. She led the struggle for farmworkers’ rights, particularly in California, where there is a large Hispanic community. Her tireless efforts resulted in the first successful labor strike against the California grape industry (the Delano grape strike of 1965). This strike, lasting five years, not only raised awareness about the harsh conditions faced by farmworkers but also led to improved wages and working conditions.

“It is very easy for people to go about their business and ignore the inequalities and challenges others face. But Dolores chose to stand up and fight for other people, which makes her a remarkable person with a big heart. We should all be grateful people like her exist in the world,” Trudy said.

Huerta’s leadership in organizing the United Farm Workers demonstrated her unwavering commitment to equality and justice. She tirelessly organized strikes, boycotts, and marches, bringing attention to farmworkers’ struggles and inspiring countless individuals to join the fight for workers’ rights. Her persistence paid off, leading to the passage of the California Agricultural Labor Relations Act in 1975, which granted farmworkers the right to collective bargaining.

Women's Rights

Beyond her involvement with the UFW, Huerta’s commitment to social justice extended to women’s rights. She co-founded the National Farm Workers Association (now the United Farm Workers) in 1962 and advocated for gender equality within the organization. She fought for equal pay and leadership opportunities for women in the union, recognizing that the fight for workers’ rights was intrinsically linked to the fight for gender equality.

Dolores Huerta’s accomplishments also include her role in inspiring future generations. She has been an advocate for education and voter engagement. She founded the Dolores Huerta Foundation, which empowers communities to participate in civic life and advocate for social change. Through her work, she encourages women and young people to become active participants in the democratic process, amplifying their voices and impacting policy decisions.

“Things rarely change on their own. It often requires a special person to stimulate change – and that’s exactly the type of person Dolores is,” Trudy said.

Huerta’s legacy is a testament to her dedication to social justice, workers’ rights, and gender equality. Her life’s work has inspired countless women to break barriers and fight for their rights in all walks of life. Her resilience in the face of adversity, her ability to mobilize people for a common cause, and her commitment to positive change make her a shining example for women everywhere.

Who is Trudy Jacobson?

Trudy is an entrepreneur and leader. Her path to success and entrepreneurialism started in the trucking industry decades ago. She encountered numerous obstacles in the male-dominated industry- like discrimination. She was even defrauded out of a lot of money by an unscrupulous, opportunistic person. Despite all that, Trudy always fought hard and pushed forward. Once she realized she could do anything, she started her own company and excelled. Now, she empowers other women to do the same and to learn from her experience. Trudy now highlights their stories for the world to see in the Great American Women Series. Trudy wants women everywhere to know they can achieve their goals.