On this day, March 10, in 1968

During the Delano grape growers struggle to fight pay-cuts, Mexican-American labor activist César Chávez publicly broke his fast at a park in Delano, California surrounded by supporters and national media. Chávez had fasted to show his commitment to non-violent action, but the fast also served to publicize the grape grower's movement, and contributed to the workers historic victory only months later. Dedicated to labor struggles and the rights of farm workers, Chávez founded the United Farm Workers Union and continued using non-violent organizing tactics, including public education and boycotts. Although questions were raised about his effectiveness in later years, Cesar Chavez has become a remarkable and enduring symbol for Latinos, and community and labor activists.