All of us in the farm worker movement were saddened to learn of the passing of R. Sargent Shriver. He is best known for the Peace Corps and as a vice presidential candidate in 1972. We will also remember him as a tireless champion for the poor and disadvantaged in America as founding chief of the Office of Economic Opportunity and as a strong supporter of Cesar Chavez and the farm workers’ cause.
We fondly recall the Mass and fundraiser Sargent and Eunice Shriver hosted at their home during the 1970s grape boycott, where hundreds, including Cesar Chavez, came to pray and eat, with meat prepared farm worker style in outdoor pits. When Sargent Shriver briefly considered a presidential candidacy in 1976, Cesar and the UFW quickly lent their support.
Surely, the Lord is blessing and watching over this great man who so selflessly dedicated himself for so long to so many. We in the farm worker movement are thinking about and praying for him and his family.
United Farm Workers of America Cesar Chavez Foundation