Congresswoman Barbara Lee Honors the Legacy of César Chávez
For Immediate Release
March 31, 2009
Contact: Nicole Y. Williams
(202) 225-2661
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-9) released the following statement commemorating César Chávez Day:
“César Chávez was a great civil and human rights leader and an important historical figure of our Nation. It is fitting that we pause today to celebrate the life and legacy of this great American whose work led to numerous improvements for union laborers.
“César made a difference not only for Latinos and migrant workers, but for the poor and the working poor, building a coalition of conscience across racial and economic boundaries.
“César was a dear friend to me. During my first campaign for the California legislature he was a stalwart supporter - for which I will always be grateful. I considered it an honor to walk in his funeral procession behind his humble wooden coffin, filled with pride for all he did for the world, our country and my home state.
“I am very proud that California was the first state to establish a legal holiday in his honor, which inspired nine additional states (Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin and Rhode Island) to declare holidays. Over the past nine years, the movement to establish a national holiday for César Chávez has grown from the state of California to a 60 city, 30 state effort. It is now past time for Congress to act to make this national tribute to César a reality.
“He was truly a hero who showed that one person can make a difference. In the spirit of César, I urged all Americans - on this day and every day - to make a difference in their communities through service.”
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