Wednesday, October 1, 2008

People I HAD to Thank at the DNC -- Dolores Huerta





Continuing my series on people I felt compelled to thank at the recent Democratic National Convention, let’s add activist Dolores Huerta to the list.

At a time when Community Organizers are lambasted by the Republican VP
Nominee, Sarah Palin, Dolores Huerta provides an example of a woman who has paid dues and continues to advocate for the rights of women, children, and the disenfranchised of the country.

Huerta is the co-founder of the United Farm Workers Union, along with
Cesar Chavez. Through-out the years this working mother has made significant impact in the areas of education, immigrant rights, women’s issues and politics. She has worked on behalf of many candidates including: President Clinton, Congressman Ron Dellums, Governor Jerry Brown, Congresswoman Hilda Solis and most recently Hillary Clinton.

It was Huerta, who introduced Senator Hillary Clinton’s name into nomination at the recent convention. After Senator Clinton halted the process, Huerta united with all Democrats in supporting the party’s nominee Barack Obama.

Later that night, I had the honor of dancing the Salsa with the 78-year-old Huerta and some of her children. If you look at the picture, which was taken after the dance, I look tired—she doesn’t!

There is still much work to be done and Dolores Huerta gracefully continues the charge.

Thank you, ‘Community Organizer’ Dolores Huerta