My consolation prize after monday's letdown this week was watching the film screening of "Cesar Chavez", beautifully directed by Diego Luna and starring Michael Peña and America Ferrera (amazing performances). America Ferrera was overall, my favorite performance, because she brought a fierceness to her character that I could look up to. Basically, if Cesar Chavez said "let's jump" Helen Chavez would say "how high?". That's the kind of person she was and America was the right person to play her.
While watching the movie there were two things I was reminded of and one new thing I learned:
-You cannot oppress the people who feel empowered (take that GOP!! Re: NYSDA) I can definitely relate to that as an Undocumented community organizer.
-You cannot claim to know American history without understanding the history and herstory of Native Americans, African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, Women's and the LGBTQ movement, and the many other political/religious/nationality- based diasporas from around the world who have influenced and continue to influence this story.
-That said, the one cool thing I learned was that the Filipino strike workers played a key part in Cesar Chavez's movement. They were passionate and stood up for their community along with the Mex-Amer. farm workers. It was very inspiring to watch. Read more about the wonderful night HERE.
Please go see it! It's a must! Go learn about our common history :)
The movie is out March 28th! Support Latino films!
Greatest selfie ever: Taking a selfie with director Diego Luna and Paul Chavez! I only wish I have had enough time to introduce myself to Mr. Chavez and tell him about our struggle.
Paul Chavez addressing the crowd about his father's pride and work in the movement, before the movie was screened. Behind him from left to right: Councilmember Carlos Menchaca, Jose Calderon (from HF), Director Diego Luna, Producer Pablo Cruz, United Farm Workers President Arturo S. Rodriguez, and Human Rights activist Kerry Kennedy.
