Washington - Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) reintroduced legislation today calling for a national holiday in honor of the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez and his nonviolent struggle for justice and equality.

"Cesar Chavez gave Latinos in the 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 legislation states that either Congress should pass a law to create a holiday in honor of Chavez, or the President should establish the holiday by executive order. It also encourages public schools to teach students about the life of Cesar Chavez and his importance in American history.

"No one better symbolizes Latino empowerment than Cesar Chavez," Baca said. "We should honor his birthday on March 31 by celebrating it. His non-violent struggle led to Latinos having many of the rights they do today. Latinos are now the largest minority in the United States, and the country should be aware of this chapter in our history."

Chavez, a migrant farm worker from age 10, was motivated by the conditions he faced to organize other 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 Farmworkers of America, the first successful farm workers organization. "La Causa" became his life's work, and the rallying cry for thousands of farm workers and immigrants. His nonviolent struggle became an inspiration to Americans and people around the world.

"He sacrificed himself for human rights and dignity," said Rep. Baca. "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, President Bill Clinton posthumously awarded Chavez the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He was also honored with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Prize and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.