Workers’ Rights Movement

1930 – 1981

In the mid-20th century, workers’ rights movements pushed for fair wages, safer conditions, and shorter hours. Strikes and activism led to stronger labor laws, collective bargaining, and benefits like healthcare and pensions, shaping labor rights in the U.S. and beyond. (See also Child Labor Reform)

Who Was Cesar Chavez?

Great introduction to Chavez’s life, world, and activism for farm workers

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop: The Sanitation Strike of 1968

Story of MLK’s final protest through the eyes of a girl who witnessed it

Side by Side/Lado a Lado

Bilingual picture book about Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta working together for workers’ rights

Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez

Picture biography of Cesar Chavez’s life and activism for workers’ rights

Strike! The Farm Workers’ Fight for Their Rights

For older readers, in-depth exploration of the fight for farm workers’ rights during the Delano grape strike

The Delano Grape Strike

Graphic novel about the grape strike that helped farm workers gain rights

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers

Story of a teacher who became a leader in the fight for farm workers’ rights

Esperanza Rising

Award-winning story of a formerly sheltered girl adjusting to life in a farm labor camp

Which Side Are You On? The Story of a Song

Story of a labor song inspired by West Virginia coal miners

The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins & Her New Deal for America

Inspiring story of the first female cabinet member and her work on the New Deal

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