STOCKTON – Carmen Fernandez remembers when she and other boycotters were deliberately sprayed with pesticides during a rally for farm-worker rights.

"They were doing that to us one day," said Fernandez, thinking back to the early 1960s. "I thought that was horrible. How inhumane. We were treated like insects."

When activist Cesar E. Chavez led a 340-mile march from Delano to Sacramento in 1966 to protest working conditions in the fields of California, she was there.

Cesar Chavez Day events

• Prayer Breakfast: 7 to 9 a.m. today, Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery, 30 E. Acacia St., Stockton. $20 per person (tickets limited). Information: (209) 952-0256.

• Cruz Reynoso: Documentary and panel discussion; 7 p.m. today, University of the Pacific, Janet Leigh Theatre, 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton. Free. Information: (209) 946-2099 or pacific.edu.

Chavez’s passion permeated a generation that was ready to stand up.

Fernandez, now 80, wasn’t always the most recognized person. Or a march leader. Or the deliverer of a inspiring speech.

But she was there, in the crowd, showing support, holding a sign and chanting the famous words: "Si Se Puede (Yes, We Can)."

Fernandez recently relived those memories. Today, after all, is Cesar Chavez Day – the state holiday that marks his birthday.

Chavez, who along with Stockton-raised Dolores Huerta founded the United Farm Workers, is remembered for galvanizing communities.

He was charismatic, gentle, respectful and yet relentless in his efforts, Fernandez said.

"He always preached non-violence," Fernandez said. "Cesar was always really nice and a gentleman. I appreciated that."

Fernandez, who was a single mother, first became involved as part of the Community Service Organization, a grass-roots group that worked to empower poor immigrants.

While her mother watched over her three children – and encouraged her to be an activist – Fernandez conducted home visits registering voters, urging people to become citizens and asking for support. Most of those she encountered were ready to see changes. They welcomed her into their homes.

"It was easy, because they wanted to get involved," Fernandez said.

Fernandez followed Huerta and Chavez in their endeavors with the United Farm Workers.

She recalled how in 1965 Filipino grape pickers joined forces with the group.

Some time after that, the historical pilgrimage from Delano to Sacramento took place as a peaceful protest.

Fernandez began her walk with dozens of others. A banner with the image of La Virgen de Guadalupe, a Catholic and cultural symbol of hope, guided the group through their long march.

They clung to the hope that one day there would be restrooms in the fields, as well as shade, water and the ability to work without pesticides.

It was an exhilarating time for Fernandez to see everyone joined in solidarity for the purpose of causing change.

Musicians played songs to keep their spirits lifted when their feet tired. Marchers chanted and sang along the route.

Californians offered water, food and even their homes for a place to spend the night. But not everyone was supportive. On one occasion, Fernandez nearly forgot about Chavez’s teachings of peace in the face of opposition.

"I stopped myself half way," Fernandez said. "That was not easy to do."

The nights would end in celebration as locals in each town they stopped in would help organize and cook food.

"I enjoyed it," Fernandez said. "Just to see the people. To see them all together."

Fernandez said she realizes there were many gains made under Chavez’s leadership, but can’t help but feel that there is still work to be done.

She is reminded of that every time she attends a demonstration, rally or event that focuses on social justice. "Farm workers are still not given the respect they deserve."

She may not be in a position to initiate some new movement, Fernandez said. But she will always show support, keeping in mind Chavez and his teachings that inspired so many to demand fair treatment.

    
Contact reporter Jennie Rodriguez at (209) 943-8564 or jrodriguez@recordnet.com.