Political Quotes

“I rise today in appreciation of the life and lasting legacy of civil rights activist and labor leader, Cesar Chavez. Cesar Chavez came from humble beginnings, born on March 31, 1927, in a small farm outside of Yuma, AZ. Through his experiences as a laborer and migrant worker in the fields of the southwest United States, he recognized a need for change; change that would bring social and economic equality to those who tilled America's soil and harvested America's crops. The exploitation and discrimination experienced and observed by Mr. Chavez energized his courageous fight for fair and equal treatment for his hardworking colleagues of all backgrounds. As a member of the U.S. Navy he served in the western Pacific during the end of World War II to protect the freedoms that he often did not enjoy. He demonstrated his dedication to two great values--community and compassion--by building a powerful coalition of grass roots organizations and inspiring individuals of all backgrounds to join a campaign for social equality. Cesar Chavez is not only an icon for Mexican-American communities across this great country, but also an American icon for all those who have felt the pain of injustice and for those who recognize the continuing need to allow equal access to the resources of our great Nation.”