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Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) today honored the service and life of Cesar Chavez, who was born on March 31, 1927.  Rep. Lofgren issued the following statement from the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives:

“Mr. Speaker, today, on his birthday, we recognize the courageous leadership of Cesar Chavez, a man who inspired hope, pride, and strength and provided a voice for thousands of farm workers across California and the rest of the country.

“My district encompasses San Jose – home to Cesar Chavez for many years.  It is in San Jose that Chavez began to fulfill his dream of empowering farm workers to demand basic human rights and protections from the abuses of farm owners. 

“Chavez experienced employer abuses first-hand and saw it happen to thousands of fellow farm workers from childhood through his adult years.  It was he who courageously organized his fellow workers to believe in their own dignity and power to gain equal rights, fair pay, and decent working conditions. 

“So on this day, I honor the memory of Cesar Chavez and the symbol of inspiration he is to all who work to promote human rights around the country and across the world. 

“May the legacy of such a great leader – Cesar Chavez – live on.  And may we always remember – Si se puede.”