Legendary leader César Chávez, an advocate for farmworker rights, is being commemorated on March 31. Chávez, an American union leader of Mexican descent, was born in Yuma, Arizona in 1927 and grew up in a family of farm workers who later moved to California.
Chávez’s motto “¡Sí, se puede!” or “Yes, we can!” epitomized his fight for the civil and labor rights of agricultural workers. He co-founded the United Farm Workers union in 1962 with Dolores Huerta, becoming the first union of its kind in the United States.
One of Chávez’s most notable achievements was the Delano grape strike in 1965, where he led farm workers in protests against poor pay and working conditions. His hunger strike in 1968, which lasted over two weeks, drew attention to the struggles of agricultural workers and ultimately led to legislative changes to improve their conditions.
President Barack Obama honored Chávez by declaring March 31 as César Chávez Day during his administration. Chávez’s home and grave have also been designated as a national monument in Keene, California.
Chávez’s legacy continues to inspire generations, with his rallying cry “Yes, we can!” becoming a widely recognized slogan for various social justice movements. His life story has even been immortalized on the big screen.
As we remember the remarkable achievements of César Chávez on this day, his impact on the fight for labor rights and social justice in the United States remains significant and enduring.