Pomona, CA – Last night, Congressman Joe Baca (D-Fontana) graciously accepted The Nathaniel and Elizabeth Davis Civil Rights Legacy Award from the Pomona Valley Democratic Club.  The Civil Rights Legacy Awards honor the work of individuals or organizations that are dedicated to advancing social justice and civic activism in our communities.

“Nathaniel and Elizabeth Davis were champions for civil rights and human dignity around the world – and it is humbling to receive this recognition named in their honor,” Rep. Baca said.  “As the great Dr. Martin Luther King once said: ‘Life’s most urgent question is: What are you doing for others?’” 

Since he was elected to Congress in 1999, Congressman Baca has championed efforts to improve the civil rights of all Americans.  As Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) during the 110th Congress (2007-2008), he successfully blocked harmful English-only and anti-immigrant amendments offered in the House.  He also guided the CHC in its efforts to ensure the contributions of Latino and Native America veterans were recognized in the PBS documentary “The War.” 

As Chair of the House Agriculture Subcommittee with jurisdiction on nutrition issues, Rep. Baca used his leadership position to help secure record levels of funding for federal nutrition programs to feed 44 million hungry Americans. In addition, Congressman Baca helped to expand the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program to provide greater access to nutritious foods to students and schools in all 50 states.

Congressman Baca also helped secure a record $40 million for outreach programs at Hispanic Serving Institutions.  In addition, he voted in support of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to help end wage discrimination in America.

Rep. Baca continues to advocate in Congress on issues that impact the poor and underserved, including nutrition, housing, health, veterans’ affairs, and issues affecting the Hispanic and Native American communities. Congressman Baca is also the primary sponsor of the PROUD Act, legislation that puts responsible immigrant high school graduates on an expedited path to U.S. Citizenship. 

“In Congress, I always strive to serve as a voice for the poor and underserved,” Rep. Baca said. “I continue to fight to improve equality and opportunity for all Americans.”