Context
Harry Bernstein wrote the article called «Cesar Chavez begins 7-week tour of U. S». It is a newspaper article; therefore, it can be categorized as an unofficial document. The article was composed on September 26, 1969 (Bernstein, 1969). At that time, farm workers were heavily concerned about their work conditions since they were devoid of proper medical care and coverage. In 1969, a medical plan was offered to them. Nevertheless, the hazardous working conditions harmed their health and well-being. The article under analysis was written in Los Angeles (Bernstein, 1969). The culture of that area was quite strong. Although state authorities were opposing the changes initiated by Chavez, the population of the city was politically and socially active.
Points
The key issue raised was the intention of Chavez to encourage the general public, as well as farm workers, to continue supporting the grape boycott. The main concept discussed in the text was the use of pesticides in growing grapes (Bernstein, 1969). To support his points, the author cited the words of Chavez. In addition, he provided statistical data related to the case. The author can be considered quite reliable and credible. For instance, Bernstein (1969) addressed all the sides of the issue providing the information regarding grape workers and activists and the reaction of grape growers and state authorities. It was done to ensure validity as well.
Audience
The intended audience of the article is the general public. The text was created for anyone interested in the political and social life of the state and for those affected by the use of pesticides. Overall, the article was written to keep the audience in the know of the current changes in the setting (Bernstein, 1969). The choice of the audience could have affected the reliability and accuracy of the text since newspaper articles are not always objective.
Since the general public may not comprehend complex medical, political or other issues requiring advanced knowledge, it becomes quite easy to mislead them. Nevertheless, the current article strives for objectivity. The language is neither positive nor negative to avoid bias. For example, the author provides the opinion of grape growers who argue that the “union does not represent their workers” (Bernstein, 1969, p. B2). However, the writer does not provide his assessment of these words.
The strategy chosen by the writer did not affect his rhetorical approach. First, he prepared the audience to consider the two sides of the issue by presenting information regarding the boycott and the well-being of Chavez (Bernstein, 1969). Then, the author elaborated on the position of one side and contrasted it with the opinion of the opponents.
Purpose
The author prepared the document to keep the audience updated regarding the grape boycott. The occasion to which the article had been linked was the 7-week tour initiated by Chavez (Bernstein, 1969). It is possible to assume that the writer’s reputation was at stake, and he did not want to be perceived as a supporter of the boycott. The evidence to this statement is the entire strategy of the author who tried to remain unbiased when providing the positions of both sides.
Analysis
The source is important since it allows reconstructing the way the boycott was developed into a nationwide initiative. Also, it assists in building a comprehension that it was a non-violent event. As stated earlier, the article reveals all the sides of the issue (Bernstein, 1969). In addition, it appeals to the general public without the intent to form a biased opinion. Therefore, the significance of the article lies in its attempt to build objectivity.
Reference
Bernstein, H. (1969). Cesar Chavez begins 7-week tour of U. S. Los Angeles Times, p. B2.