[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 59 (Thursday, March 30, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E744-E745]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                         TRIBUTE TO CESAR CHAVEZ

                                 ______


                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 30, 1995
  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the birthdate of a 
genuine American hero, Cesar Chavez, which is on Friday, March 31. It 
is hard to summarize the accomplishments and impact of those citizens 
whose work not only changes the nature of the world in which they 
lived--but extends beyond their natural lives into the lives of those 
who will only know them by their legacy.
  Just as every African-American citizen feels the impact of Martin 
Luther King Jr.'s legacy in their lives, every Hispanic citizen, 
especially those who work the farms, fruit orchards and vegetable 
fields of America, will feel the impact of the life of Cesar Chavez.
  Before Cesar, America's migrant workers had few rights. He became 
their voice and the force that fought for basic human liberties and 
labor rights.
  When Cesar died he left a legacy to be emulated by future generations 
and the lessons learned will resonate for years to come. A legacy that 
will make migrant workers a full partner in the agricultural industry, 
and bring them to full membership in our society with all the benefits 
that full membership implies.
  Ever so slowly, migrant workers are entering into the mainstream of 
our society and into a status for which they have long aspired and is 
[[Page E745]] long overdue. Cesar's dream is moving towards reality. 
Whether it be by increasing education, work and training opportunities; 
continuing the fight to grain a liveable wage, benefits, and working 
conditions; or guaranteeing their access to full citizenship and the 
right to have their grievance addressed by whether legal means 
available.
  As we move forward as a community towards ensuring equal opportunity, 
equal protections and equal membership for all peoples in our society, 
let us remember the contributions of one of the greatest teachers on 
the means and importance of this pursuit--Cesar Chavez.


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