Madam Speaker, on the eightieth anniversary of César Chávez' birth, it is appropriate to reflect on the impact his life and work has had on our Nation. As the founder of the United Farm Workers, Chávez was able to bring about great and positive change for many of the Nation's most vulnerable workers, notwithstanding the seemingly insurmountable obstacles confronting him. He was a remarkable man, who not only fought for the basic human rights of a too often neglected segment of our country, but he went on to inspire a whole new generation of activists who would later carry on his path-breaking work.
César Chávez understood the poverty and disenfranchisement of his fellow farm workers, having grown up working in the fields to support his own family. He fought for fair wages, medical coverage, pension benefits and humane living conditions for farm laborers around the country. And this legacy carries us forward today.
During my time in the California State Senate I supported legislation to designate a State holiday in honor of this remarkable leader. California is currently one of only eight States in the Nation that officially celebrate César Chávez' accomplishments with a holiday, and it has proven an excellent opportunity to educate adults and children about his important effect on social justice and civil rights. That is why I support the effort to create a national holiday to honor César Chávez and share his achievements with the entire Nation.
César Chávez had a motto, sí se puede (it can be done). This message continues to embody Chávez's legacy by inspiring Americans to demand social justice and civil rights. I call upon our community and our country to join me in honoring the contributions and services of a true American hero.