Pelosi Statement on Cesar E. Chavez National Monument Dedication

Contact: Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in recognition of the dedication ceremony of the National Cesar E. Chavez Monument in Nuestra Reina de La Paz in Keene, California. President Obama will dedicate the national site later this afternoon:

"Cesar Chavez dedicated his life to the values that make America great: opportunity, justice, and equality. As such, La Paz, Chavez's home, is home to one of the greatest civil rights movements in the history of our nation and it is appropriate that President Obama designates it a national monument today.

"Cesar Chavez's work was rooted in the plight of farmworkers but his cause spoke to many more. He stood on the side of all of those who seek an honest day's pay for an honest day's work, all of those willing to sacrifice and strive to achieve the American dream. His legacy is felt in safer working conditions, workplace protections, and a thriving labor movement.

"Today is a moment of pride for Californians, as President Obama travels to our state to honor our national values. May the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument inspire the American quest for social justice for generations to come."

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