Pasadena, CA - U.S. Representative Adam Schiff hosted a Cinco de Mayo forum today to recognize the contributions of Cesar Chavez and view the U.S. postage stamp issued in his honor. Andres Irlando, Executive Director of the Cesar Chavez Foundation, Pasadena Postmaster Robert Mysel and Chavez stamp artist, Pasadena resident Robert Rodriguez joined Rep. Schiff at the forum.
"Cesar Chavez was one of our nation's greatest advocates for working families," Rep. Schiff said today. "We stand here today to honor him and his contributions to the farm labor movement. In California, we have Cesar Chavez Day - but we must work together to bring national attention to the work of this great leader."
Rep. Schiff discussed legislation to establish a public holiday in honor of Cesar E. Chavez and protect historic sites associated with his life and the farm labor movement. Rep. Schiff and the Cesar Chavez postage stamp artist, Pasadena resident Robert Rodriguez, displayed the stamp issued in Chavez's honor.
The postage stamp image was painted by freelance illustrator Robert Rodriguez and features a portrait of Chavez against a background of empty grape fields. Rodriguez based the portrait on a 1976 photograph of Chavez taken by Bob Fitch and provided to the Postal Service by the Cesar E. Chavez Foundation. Rodriguez based the background on an aerial photograph taken in the 1960s by Ted Streshinsky.
Cesar Chavez is best known as the founder of the United Farm Workers of America, AFL-CIO (UFW). He was a tireless advocate for non-violent social change and dedicated his life to public service.
Rep. Schiff represents California’s 29th Congressional District, including the communities of Alhambra, Altadena, Burbank, East Pasadena, East San Gabriel, Glendale, Monterey Park, Pasadena, San Gabriel, South Pasadena and Temple City.