Dolores Huerta

In preparation for the retreat, we are asking all participants to commit to approximately 1-hour of pre-retreat learning. The goal of this “assignment” is to establish a foundation of knowledge about our central biblical figure (Amos) and your pre-selected modern Holy Troublemaker. You can download and print this PDF or use a journal for note-taking as you read/watch the materials. 

Part 1 – Amos

Read Amos 2:4-3:10, 5:7-15, 9:9-15

Reflection Questions:

• How would you summarize Amos’ message (based just on these passages) in 10 words or less?
• Why is God going to punish Judah & Israel? What are their wrongdoings?
• How do you think ancient Israelites felt hearing this message? How does the reading make you feel?
• The book of Amos focuses largely on God’s anger with Israel’s corruption, but that’s not the whole story. What hope for an alternative future does Amos end with?

Part 2 – Dolores

• Watch this story about how Dolores’ continues to be an activist (8 mins)
• Watch Dolores’ TedTalk on How to Overcome Apathy and Find Your Power (13.5 mins) 

Reflection Questions:

• What surprises or intrigues you about Dolores’ story?
• What impediments or challenges has she faced? How did she respond to those challenges?
• What motivates her work? What is at stake, and why does it matter
• How does Dolores’ life and work reflect the Gospel?
• What social justice issues do YOU feel strongly about?

Here are some additional resources to consult if you wish to learn more about Dolores either before or after the retreat.

• Watch the documentary on Dolores 
• Read a chapter about Huerta and her work in The United Farm Workers Union   
• Read the LA Times article Eternal Soldadera 
• Read Resolution 37 of House of Representatives honoring Dolores’ work 
• Read a short biography of Dolores 
• Watch Dolores share Together, we make a difference (4 mins)
• Watch this short PBS clip on her early work in organizing (1.5 mins)