Pelosi Statement on 82nd Anniversary of Cesar Chavez' Birthday

Pelosi Statement on 82nd Anniversary of Cesar Chavez’ Birthday

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Contact:Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in honor of the 82nd anniversary of Cesar Chavez’ birthday on March 31st:

"Cesar Chavez taught us that dignity and sacrifice can inspire a people and bring about change. He famously believed that ‘to suffer for someone in greater need was human.’ It is this belief, along with his struggle on behalf of America’s farm workers, that makes Cesar Chavez an American hero.

"Cesar Chavez devoted his life to improving the working and living conditions of America’s farm workers. His efforts for fair wages, pension benefits, and medical coverage have improved the lives of thousands of families.

"In his honor, last year Congress passed the Cesar Estrada Chavez Study Act, authorizing the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of the sites associated with the life of Cesar Chavez and the farm labor movement. To celebrate his commitment to our nation’s farm workers, we expanded the Migrant and Seasonal Head Start programs, allowing the sons and daughters of our farmers to get an early start on their education.

"Today, on Cesar Chavez’ birthday, we renew our commitment to his fight for equal rights and fair working conditions. Our efforts in Congress to bring justice and opportunity to all are the continuation of his work, and his legacy is remembered by millions."