FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 12, 2003
CONTACT: LINDA MACIAS/PAUL TODD (202) 225-6161

Baca proposes holiday honoring life and work of Cesar E. Chavez

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In honor of the upcoming birthday of social justice leader Cesar E. Chavez, Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) has reintroduced a resolution calling for a national celebration of the life and legacy of Chavez and his nonviolent struggle for justice and equality for immigrants.

“Cesar gave Latinos in this country a voice when we had none,” Baca said. “He touched the lives of millions with his nonviolent struggle for justice, education, and equality.”

“He was a beacon of hope for Latinos.”

Baca’s resolution proposes the establishment and observation of a public holiday in honor of Chavez. It states that either Congress should amend the law to include a holiday in honor of Chavez, or the President should establish the holiday by executive order. The resolution also encourages public schools across the nation to teach students about the life of Cesar Chavez and his importance in American History.

Born into humble circumstances, Chavez was forced to become a migrant farm worker at the age of 10 because his father lost the land he was homesteading. Chavez used the challenges he faced as motivation to help the farm workers whose suffering he shared. He organized farm workers to campaign for fair working conditions, reasonable wages, and decent housing and health conditions.

In 1962, Cesar Chavez founded the National Farmworkers Association, the predecessor to the United Farm Workers of America. “La Causa” became his life’s work, and the rallying cry for thousands of immigrants. His nonviolent struggle became an inspiration to Americans and to other people around the world.

“He sacrificed himself for human rights and dignity. He left a legacy for each and every one of us, and for generations to come. His words will always ring true in our lives: ‘Si, se puede! ‘Yes, we can!’”

In 1994, Chavez was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously by President Bill Clinton. He was also honored with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Prize and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize during his lifetime.

“No one better symbolizes Latino empowerment than does Cesar Chavez,” Baca said. “We should honor his birthday by celebrating it, and I am hopeful we will pass legislation in the House honoring Chavez and encouraging schools to teach students about his life.”


 

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