Statement from the California Latino Legislative Caucus Celebrating Cesar Chavez Day

Sacramento, CA – Today the members of the California Latino Legislative Caucus released the following joint statement:

“Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of one of California’s most important heroes, Cesar Chavez.”

“Earlier this month, the members of the Latino Caucus had the honor of joining Cesar Chavez’ family and friends in screening the new movie about his struggle to advance the cause of fairness and justice for farmworkers in California and around the country.” 

“Born on March 31, 1927, Cesar Chavez grew up on a multi-generational family homestead near Yuma, Arizona. During the Depression, the family lost the farm and moved to California. Here, Cesar experienced first-hand, not only the indignities suffered by farmworkers, but also the anxiety that came from minimal wages and no job security for workers and their families.” 

“As Cesar Chavez said in his own words: ‘It is ironic that those who till the soil, cultivate and harvest the fruits, vegetables, and other foods that fill your tables with abundance have nothing left for themselves.’

“Working alongside a number of different races and ethnicities, Chavez learned stories of other cultures.  He learned that the strength of a Democracy comes from all of our cultures and backgrounds working together.”

“In 1962, Chavez, along with Dolores Huerta, organized the Farm Workers’ Association, which would later become the United Farm Workers (UFW).  Together they advanced “La Causa” into a national movement. With a rallying cry of ‘Si Se Puede,’ Chavez and UFW led a 10,000 person March from Delano to Sacramento and organized a grape boycott that ultimately led to the dignity of farmworkers being formally recognized by growers through the first farmworker contracts in California history.”

“The principles, struggle, and values that motivated Cesar Chavez have inspired and motivated the members of the Latino Caucus. Whether it is fighting for better jobs and working conditions for workers, improving access to healthcare, eliminating discrimination, improving the quality and equality of education, providing service to others or simply treating each other with dignity and respect, no matter their background, Cesar Chavez’ selfless example is the standard we all strive to follow.” 

“Today, on Cesar Chavez’ birthday and on the holiday named in his honor, the Latino Caucus celebrates his legacy and encourages others inspired by his leadership to continue to build on the foundation he has laid before us. Si Se Puede!”

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Contact: Roger Salazar 916-284-1255/ rsalazar@AlzaMedia.com