In 1977, a group of farmworkers embarked on a march from Texas to Washington, D.C. to shed light on the injustices they faced. Along the way, they received support from various individuals and organizations, highlighting the unity and solidarity among different communities.
As they reached the nation’s capital, the marchers were met with a celebratory atmosphere, reminiscent of historic events like Woodstock. The presence of Esteban “Steve” Jordan, who composed songs about the march, added to the festive mood.
Despite facing hardships and challenges, the farmworkers’ union aimed to secure a meeting with President Carter to address their goals. However, they were only granted a meeting with Vice President Walter Mondale, who promised to work on their issues in the future.
Ultimately, the farmworkers’ march did not lead to a meeting with President Carter, as external events like the Iran hostage crisis and Carter’s failed reelection bid took precedence. Speculation arose about the reasons behind Carter’s decision, including pressure from UFW leader César Chávez.
The legacy of the 1977 march remains significant in the history of the Texas Farm Workers Union, although artifacts and records of the event are scarce. Norma Ramirez, who has become the unofficial keeper of the union’s history, emphasizes the importance of preserving and sharing the story of the TFWU.
Norma’s efforts to raise awareness about the union’s history, including advocating for a school to be named after Antonio Orendain, reflect her commitment to ensuring that the TFWU’s legacy is not forgotten. Through public speaking engagements and sharing her personal memories, Norma hopes to keep the story alive for future generations.
The untold history of the Texas Farm Workers Union serves as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of farmworkers in Texas and the importance of recognizing their contributions to the state’s Latino history. Norma’s dedication to preserving this history highlights the resilience and determination of those who participated in the 1977 march.
