Three Filipino American labor leaders inducted into Hall of Honor

 

From left: Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz and Peter Velasco were honored for their
role in the United States labor movement.

Three Filipino American labor leaders were recently inducted in the Hall of Honor by the Department of Labor.

The U.S. Department of Labor inducted Filipino American labor leaders Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz, and Peter Gines Velasco into its Hall of Honor, on Nov. 20 recognizing their pivotal roles in advancing farmworkers’ rights during the 1960s. These leaders made significant contributions to the labor movement, particularly through their work during the Delano Grape Strike.

• Larry Itliong, born in the Philippines in 1913, immigrated to the United States in 1929. He became a prominent labor organizer, advocating for fair wages and improved working conditions for farmworkers. 

• Philip Vera Cruz, who arrived in the U.S. in 1926, was instrumental in organizing Filipino farmworkers and served as vice president of the United Farm Workers (UFW). 

• Peter Gines Velasco played a significant role in uniting Filipino and Latino farmworkers, particularly during the Delano Grape Strike, which became a defining moment in the labor movement.

Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su honored the inductees, stating, “Itliong, Vera Cruz, and Velasco rallied farmworkers… to courageously organize for fairer wages and humane treatment.” 

In 1965, these leaders orchestrated the Delano Grape Strike, where over 800 Filipino farmworkers protested against poor working conditions and low wages in California’s grape vineyards. Their efforts with Mexican American leader Cesar Chavez led to the formation of the UFW, marking a significant advancement in the labor movement.

The ceremony included performances from “Larry the Musical,” celebrating Itliong’s life and contributions. The induction highlights the significant contributions of Filipino Americans to the labor movement, inspiring future generations to continue advocating for workers’ rights and social justice.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X or at the blog Views From the Edge.