Descendants of lighthouse keeper Alonzo Morong Sr. are gathering in Lisbon Falls, Maine, to honor his memory. Their hope is to keep alive the story of a man who devoted his life to ensuring the lights stayed on for sailors and coastal communities.

In 1988, one family rose before dawn and headed toward Delano, California. Their goal was to stand alongside others inspired by César Chávez’s cause. This commentary reflects on that pivotal moment and why Chávez’s message still resonates today.