Living Legend Dolores Huerta Ignites Passion for Justice at Stockton University

A ripple of excitement and reverence swept through Stockton University as civil rights titan Dolores Huerta, a name synonymous with unwavering courage and relentless advocacy, graced the campus with her presence. At an awe-inspiring 94 years young, Huerta stands as a living testament to the power of persistent struggle, her voice still resonating with the clarion call for justice that has defined more than seven decades of her life.

Students and faculty alike hung on her every word, captivated by the woman who, alongside Cesar Chavez, co-founded the United Farm Workers.

It was Huerta who coined the iconic phrase, "Sí se puede" — "Yes, we can" — a motto that has since transcended movements and generations, becoming a universal beacon of hope and determination. Her visit wasn't just a historical lecture; it was a vibrant, personal encounter with a pivotal architect of modern American civil rights, a figure whose work profoundly shaped the landscape for marginalized communities.

Huerta’s powerful address delved into her storied past, recounting the arduous battles fought for farmworkers' rights – the dangerous conditions, the meager wages, the systematic injustices.

Yet, her message was far from dwelling in the past. It was a potent challenge to the present, a fervent plea for the youth to pick up the torch and continue the fight. She passionately articulated the interconnectedness of various struggles, emphasizing her advocacy not only for labor rights but also for women’s rights, environmental justice, and LGBTQ+ equality, demonstrating a holistic vision for a truly equitable society.

The essence of her message to the students was clear: engagement is not optional; it is imperative.

Huerta urged them to recognize their immense power, reminding them that they are the inheritors of movements built on non-violent resistance and collective action. She implored them to register to vote, to participate in their communities, to hold their leaders accountable, and to never shy away from speaking truth to power.

"Every single person has a responsibility," she declared, her gaze firm, her spirit indomitable.

As her visit concluded, it was evident that Dolores Huerta had done more than just share her story; she had reignited a spark within the Stockton University community. Her legacy is not merely etched in history books; it lives vibrantly in her continued activism and, crucially, in the hearts and minds of those she inspires.

The echoes of "Sí se puede" will undoubtedly propel a new generation forward, empowered by the example of a woman who proved, and continues to prove, that indeed, 'Yes, we can.'