The 2017 documentary “Dolores,” the story of 88-year-old civil rights activist and labor leader Dolores Huerta, will be screened at Weber State University’s Wildcat Theatre Sept. 12 and Sept. 13 with a discussion to follow.

“Dolores” chronicles the life of Huerta as a young Chicana living in California, who stepped into help after she realized the social injustices of local migrant farm workers, women and minorities, a decision that led her to the lifetime of activism she continues today.

Huerta, “…is a true iconic figure for women in historical movements,” said Teresa Martinez of Weber State’s Center for Community Engaged Learning. “We hope many people from the WSU and surrounding communities take the opportunity to come learn about her story and how they can make a difference in their own communities.”

Through grassroots community organizing, Huerta and famed labor leader Cesar Chavez mobilized private citizens to protest the farmers and the government responsible for the unfair treatment of migrant laborers.

This led to the formation of the United Farm Workers in 1962, one of the earliest national labor unions, which helped usher in the environmentalist movement as growers adopted safer pesticides for industrial crops.

The film reveals Huerta overcoming sexism among her peers. When Chavez died, the UFW board voted against her being his successor because she was a woman.

Huerta faced government push-backs and violence severe enough to hospitalize her. She survived after several months of recovery and then resumed her work.

“These screenings are a chance to spread knowledge of Dolores Huerta’s work and legacy and give recognition to this incredible activist whose work was overlooked because of her gender,” said Alex Dutro-Maeda of the Weber State Women’s Center.

On Sept. 25, Huerta will deliver the keynote speech at the culmination of the WSU’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Her speech will take place at the Ogden campus from 6:30–8 p.m. in Ballrooms B and C of the Shepherd Union. Parking is free, and the public is invited to attend.