This letter by renowned activist Howard Zinn was sent to AFL-CIO president David Newby on February 16, 2003.

Dear David:

I've been traveling and ferociously busy, as I suppose we all have been in these hectic times, but I finally had a chance to listen to “Esperanza”. It is certainly an outstanding achievement. We have so little opera indigenous to this country based on themes of social importance — of course West Side Story is a supreme example, but virtually alone. And as for musical works based on labor struggle, we have even less. I recall John Reed's musical pageant of 1913 based on the Paterson silk workers strike. More recently, an opera based on Emma Goldman was composed by Leonard Lehrman.

So it's a rare treat to have something like “Esperanza,” and, of course, “Salt of the Earth” provides perfect subject matter. I found the music stirring, and the lyrics uplifting. I am confident that as word gets out about “Esperanza” it will be performed more and more around the country. It seems to me it is a natural for any gathering of labor people anywhere.

Thanks so much for sending it to me. And best of luck in your good work.

(signed)

Howard Zinn