September 30

The United Farm Workers (UFW) was formally established on September 30, 1962, when César Chávez and Dolores Huerta united their organizing efforts to create a union dedicated to farm laborers. Its greatest strength has been giving a voice to workers who, for decades, endured long hours, unsafe conditions, and little legal protection. Through strikes, boycotts, and nonviolent protests, the UFW helped secure landmark improvements in wages, working hours, and access to essentials like clean drinking water and shade in the fields. The grape boycott of the late 1960s proved that ordinary consumers could support farmworkers by leveraging their purchasing power, and it established the UFW as a national force for social justice. The union also drew national attention to the dangers of pesticide exposure and pushed for broader recognition of farmworkers’ rights in America.

At the same time, the UFW has faced challenges and criticism. Membership has declined significantly since its peak, partly because of the difficulty of organizing a largely seasonal, immigrant workforce across many regions. Critics argue the union struggled with leadership conflicts, resisted adapting to changing labor realities, and lost some bargaining power over time. Others point out that gains achieved in the 1960s and 1970s were not always sustained, leaving many farmworkers today still vulnerable to low pay and harsh conditions. Yet, even with its struggles, the UFW’s founding on September 30, 1962, remains a milestone in American labor history — a reminder that progress is possible when ordinary people unite around dignity, justice, and fairness.

Prayer for Union Leadership

Heavenly Father,

We lift up today the men and women who carry the responsibility of leading unions. You know the burdens they face, the temptations that come with power,

and the criticism that often follows their decisions.

We ask You to guard their hearts against corruption, pride, and selfish ambition,

and instead fill them with integrity, humility, and wisdom.

Give union leaders the courage to stand firm against abusive practices,

the clarity to negotiate with fairness, and the compassion

to remember that their role is to protect and uplift the workers

who depend on them.

May they see beyond politics and personal gain,

keeping the dignity and livelihood of every laborer at the center of their mission. Strengthen them to act as true servants of justice,

and let their leadership bring peace, equity,

and hope to the workplaces they represent.

Amen.

Challenge

This week, look for one situation where you can speak up for fairness or support someone with less influence than you. It may be as simple as backing up a co-worker, encouraging a friend who feels overlooked, or challenging a small act of unfairness. Put integrity into action where you are.