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Larry Itliong and the Grape Strike — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This engaging U.S. history reading passage introduces students to Larry Itliong and the Grape Strike, a key event in the Civil Rights Movement in California. Students will learn about the bravery and unity of Filipino and Mexican American farmworkers who stood together for fair wages and better working conditions. The passage highlights Larry Itliong's leadership, the start of the Delano Grape Strike, and the important partnership with Cesar Chavez. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, a timeline, and a graphic organizer to deepen understanding. Glossary terms are provided to build vocabulary. The passage is aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards for history and literacy. Read aloud audio and a Spanish translation support all learners. This resource is perfect for building foundational knowledge of U.S. Civil Rights history and the power of teamwork and problem-solving.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Grape Strike and Boycott, March 18, 1970. [bumper sticker]" by Trikosko, Marion S. / Library of Congress.

Larry Itliong was a leader who helped change history for farmworkers in America. In 1965, he led Filipino American farmworkers in Delano, California, to demand better pay and safer conditions. These workers picked grapes all day in the hot sun, but they were paid very little. Many lived in poor houses and had no rights at work.

Larry Itliong saw that things needed to change. He and other leaders asked the grape growers for higher pay. When the growers said no, the workers decided to go on strike. This means they stopped working to show how important their work was. On September 8, 1965, over 1,000 Filipino American workers walked out of the vineyards. This became known as the Delano grape strike.

Itliong knew that the strike would be stronger if more people joined. He reached out to Cesar Chavez and Mexican American farmworkers. At first, not everyone agreed, but soon the two groups joined together. This was the beginning of a powerful union called the United Farm Workers (UFW). Together, they worked to protect the rights of all farmworkers.

The workers also started a boycott of grapes. They asked people all over America not to buy grapes until the growers agreed to fair pay. Many people supported the boycott. Stores and families stopped buying grapes. The strike and boycott lasted for five years. It was hard work, but the workers did not give up.

Finally, in 1970, the grape growers signed contracts with the union. The workers got better pay, safer jobs, and respect. Larry Itliong’s leadership helped make this happen. Even though Cesar Chavez is more famous, Itliong and the Filipino workers were the first to start the strike. Their bravery made a difference for all farmworkers in America.

Interesting Fact: The Delano grape strike inspired people across the country to support farmworker rights. It also showed how people from different backgrounds can work together for justice.

Who led the Delano grape strike?

Larry ItliongMartin Luther King Jr.Rosa ParksHarriet Tubman

When did the grape strike begin?

1965197019501980

What crop did workers pick?

GrapesCornOrangesWheat

What is a boycott?

Not buying somethingSelling fruitVoting for someoneJoining a team

Why did workers go on strike?

To get better payTo sell grapesTo visit friendsTo plant trees

What happened after the boycott?

Workers got contractsWorkers left the fieldsGrape prices fellBosses fired everyone