[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 135 (Friday, August 11, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E767-E768]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE LIFE OF DONA JOSEFINA CERVANTES FLORES

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 11, 2023

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life 
of Dona Josefina Cervantes Flores, a tireless advocate for farmworkers 
and a dedicated member of the United Farm Workers (UFW) movement. At 
the age of 92, she peacefully passed away in Visalia on Monday, June 
26, leaving behind a legacy of courage, dedication, and unwavering 
commitment.
  Dona Josefina was part of a remarkable group of veteran farm worker 
activists who continued to organize and engage with the UFW well into 
their 70s, 80s, and beyond. Throughout her life, she participated in 
practically every major VFW campaign and event, witnessing the 
movement's triumphs and sacrifices. She was a true warrior for 
agricultural labor rights, tirelessly fighting for the cause that she 
held dear.
  Dona Josefina's fierce loyalty extended not only to her own large 
family but also to her

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labor family. She cared deeply for her UFW brothers and sisters, and 
her commitment to the movement's goals was unwavering. Through strikes, 
boycotts, marches, and political campaigns, she contributed immensely, 
to the advancement of farmworker rights.
  Born on October 24, 1930, in Calexico, California, to a Yaqui family 
from Sonora, Mexico, Josefina's warrior spirit was evident from an 
early age. Despite having no formal education, she taught herself to 
read and write, demonstrating her determination and resourcefulness. 
Her encounter with Cesar Chavez in the 1960s in Reedley, Fresno County, 
was a turning point in her life. From that moment, she became deeply 
involved with the UFW, learning English and actively participating in 
organizing efforts. Even a serious injury sustained during an incident 
in a field did not deter her from her mission.
  Josefina's dedication to the UFW extended to the lettuce boycott, 
organizing events in Chicago and New York. She continued to fast, a 
powerful form of protest, well into her 80s, despite pleas from her 
family. Her commitment and activism earned her meetings with prominent 
figures, including Hilary Clinton, the Kennedys, and President Obama. 
One of her remarkable contributions was on Cesar Chavez's birthday, 
March 31, 2021, when Josefina accompanied her great-grandchildren to 
help First Lady Dr. Jill Biden administer COVID vaccines to farm 
workers at the movement's historic Forty Acres property near Delano.
  Throughout her life, Josefina inspired countless young UFW organizers 
and personnel. Known for her direct approach, she encouraged workers to 
take charge of their lives and effect positive change. Her ability to 
balance patience and urgency left a profound impact on those she 
mentored. Beyond her public role, Josefina also engaged in caring for 
UFW staff and leadership children and cooked for Cesar Chavez during 
his time at the La Paz headquarters in Keene. Her dedication to the 
cause also extended to her residence at the Paulo Agbayani Retirement 
Village outside Delano and the Casa Hernandez affordable senior housing 
neighborhood, both under the auspices of the Cesar Chavez Foundation.
  Josefina leaves behind a large and loving family, including her 
children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-
grandchildren. Her democratic union values and, if possible (Si Se 
Puede), attitude have been passed down through 5 generations, 
continuing the legacy of her tireless efforts for farmworker rights. In 
honor of Dona Josefina Cervantes Flores, a memorial service will be 
held to pay tribute to her extraordinary life and unwavering commitment 
to the UFW. Her contributions to the farm worker movement will forever 
be remembered and celebrated.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in recognizing 
and honoring Dona Josefina Cervantes Flores, a true pioneer of the farm 
worker movement, whose legacy will continue to inspire us all to fight 
for justice and dignity in the labor community. May her family find 
comfort in knowing that her contributions have touched the lives of 
many, leaving an enduring impact on farm workers and communities 
throughout the nation.

                          ____________________