The protection the law had sought to extend to farmworkers was undermined. Unable to sustain their rights in the courtroom. it became increasingly difficult to maintain contracts in the face of Intransigent employer opposition. Like many other unions across the country. the United Farm Workers lost contracts in the 1980s and. like many other American workers. advances in the standard of living of migrant workers across the country were eroded. If we are to truly honor the memory of Cesar Chavez. it Is important that we not forget the work his passing has left uncompleted and the challenges he has left for us to lullill. As Americans. we pride ourselves on being a society that offers opportunity for all and encourages each individual to succeed to the best of ones abilities.