The Mayer Theatre 1996 Production of Frank Gilanti's The Grapes of Wrath, based on the novel by John Steinbeck, is a participant in Santa Clara University's Institute on Justice in the Arts. As part of promoting Justice in our world today, the Irvine Foundation sponsored a trip for the cast and crew of the production to experience the continuning exploitation of the agricultural laborer in California, scarely changed from the time of the "Okies." As a member of the cast, I was privledged to attend this three day trip to the Central Valley farming area, hosted by the United Farm Workers. Much as the same as the character of Jim Casey, these hard working men and women strive to put an end to this exploitation by organizing. The labor organizers have to operate under stict regulations, limitations and harassment by the growers to even speak with the workers; battling for fair wages, health care, and an end to indiscriminate firing practices. Many laborers found after years of repetative tasks they were no longer physically capable of working due to the damage the work environment did to their bodies. One company requires sorters to remain kneeling for the entire day, little caring what it might do to one's ability to walk. Harmful chemicals, unnecessary chemicals are used to excess, such as growth hormones.
My trip to the Central Valley was an enlightening and saddening experience. The story of the Grapes of Wrath continues to this day, ignored by those who profit from it.
Judy Grivich