Larry Itliong, a Filipino American labor organizer and civil rights activist, led the Delano grape strike on September 8, 1965. Soon after, Filipino American leader and farmworker Philip Vera Cruz took on a leadership role in the struggle. Together, they organized hundreds of Filipino farmworkers to demand fair wages, better working conditions, and the right to form a union.

One week later, Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta, and other leaders of the National Farm Workers of America joined Itliong and Vera Cruz in striking against grape growers.

The Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) Delano chapter celebrated the 60th Anniversary of the Delano Grape Strike at Robert F. Kennedy High School. FANHS promotes an understanding of the history and culture of Filipino Americans in the United States. The event honored the Filipino farm laborers who fought for better wages and working conditions.

The celebration began with activities including a historical tour of the Filipino American experience during the Delano Grape Strike and an opening ceremony. The ceremony featured a panel discussion with Alex Fabros, a former professor of Asian American studies at San Francisco State University who established the Filipino American Experience Project; Lorraine Agtang, one of the few surviving Filipino grape strikers; and Roger Gadino.

Participants learned about the historical and cultural impact the grape strike had on the Filipino American community in Delano.

Later in the day, Attorney General Rob Bonta joined Dolores Huerta, the Chavez Foundation, and other distinguished speakers to discuss the significance of the movement.

Christian Paiz, professor of comparative ethnic studies and author, joined Johnny Itliong, the son of the prolific civil rights activist, to celebrate Larry Itliong’s legacy.