Final answer:
Non-violence is a strategy for social change that eschews violence, exemplified by the philosophy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi. It played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement and was key in Cesar Chavez's 'Viva La Causa' movement for farm workers' rights, often through powerful symbolic acts like hunger strikes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Non-violence is a philosophy and strategy for social change that rejects the use of violence. In the context of the civil rights struggle, it was a powerful tool for challenging and overcoming institutionalized discrimination and inequality. Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the most iconic figures associated with non-violence, having been influenced by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, Henry David Thoreau, and A. Philip Randolph. King's application of non-violence, which he called "soul force," played a critical role in the effectiveness and moral authority of the Civil Rights Movement.
During the struggle of 'Viva La Causa', which refers to the movement for farm workers' rights led by Cesar Chavez, non-violence was equally pivotal. Influenced by Gandhi, Chavez used non-violent tactics, such as hunger strikes, to raise awareness and generate support for the plight of farm workers. The non-violent movement not only sought to improve working conditions but also to promote the dignity and worth of every human being.
Non-violence stands out as a fundamental principle that guided various movements towards positive societal change. The essence of non-violent resistance is not to seek victory over adversaries but to reach justice and reconciliation. As a testimony to its significance, many activists in the Civil Rights Movement adhered to a commitment card underscoring their pledge to the non-violent movement.