Proof Cracked Open: An Episode from the Feet in 2 Worlds Podcast
May 29, 2025
Avery Thompson, a producer for Feet in Two Worlds and contributor to Proof, discusses the impactful 1938 pecan shellers strike in San Antonio. He dives into the struggles faced by Mexican American women fighting against economic exploitation in the pecan industry. Through the lens of history, Avery connects past labor movements to current economic issues, emphasizing the importance of collective action. He also highlights the legacy of leader Emma Tenayuca, showcasing how cultural identity and resistance shaped this vibrant community's fight for justice.
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Milam Park's Historic Role
- Milam Park in San Antonio was once the vibrant Plaza de Zacate, the cultural heart of the Mexican American community.
- It served as a lively hub for commerce, music, and political discussions in the early 20th century.
Emma Tenayuca's Early Inspiration
- Emma Tenayuca grew up observing injustice in San Antonio's Mexican American community.
- She became a passionate activist inspired by the hardships around her and the stories shared at the plaza.
Labor Exploitation in Pecan Industry
- San Antonio's pecan industry thrived by exploiting the labor of Mexican American workers rather than investing in machinery.
- This practice capitalized on the workers' ancestral skills in pecan shelling.