Newark, NJ - In observation of Cesar Chavez Day, U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) introduced a resolution to honor and commemorate civil rights leader César Estrada Chávez. The resolution is co-sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Sens. Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tom Udall (D-NM) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

“Cesar Chavez’s legacy lives in the hearts and minds of every single American who has organized peacefully across our great nation in the pursuit of justice,” said Senator Menendez (D-NJ). “It is an honor and privilege to once again introduce a Senate Resolution to commemorate the transcending legacy of this American hero whose courage and vision shook the consciousness of our nation. Cesar Chavez successfully stood up to injustice and oppression and created a powerful movement to improve the lives and working conditions of farm workers and laborers across America. As we recommit ourselves to building upon Cesar Chavez’s work, may we always honor his extraordinary life and accomplishments.”

“Today we commemorate the legacy of a great American hero,” said Senator Reid (D-NV). “Cesar Chavez fought tirelessly to improve the lives of farm workers and all American workers. I will continue fighting to honor the legacy of Cesar Chavez. I hope Senate Republicans will put partisan politics aside and join me to pass legislation that protects workers’ rights as well as the right to organize, grow the middle class, ensure women receive equal pay for equal work and end the separation of families by passing comprehensive immigration reform.”

“Decades after he led the charge on behalf of Latino farm workers for fair wages and safe working conditions, Cesar Chavez’s legacy as a leader in our nation’s Civil Rights movement lives on,” said Senator Bennet (D-CO). “His dedication to justice and equality inspired future generations and influenced countless leaders. As we take time to honor his achievements today, we must also remember our responsibility as Americans to fight against discrimination and intolerance and work to create more opportunity for the next generation.”

“Today, we remember Cesar Chavez and celebrate his legacy,” said Senator Booker (D-NJ). “An influential civil rights advocate and courageous labor activist, he was a leader in nonviolent protest and a champion for social justice. He was, and remains, a role model, hero, and inspiration — not just for America's workers, but for all Americans.”

“Cesar Chavez had the rarest kind of courage—moral courage—and he had great faith in the promise of America,” said Senator Durbin (D-IL). “In many ways, America is becoming the place Cesar Chavez dreamed of. But I think Cesar Chavez would also remind us that the struggle for equal justice is far from over.”

"César Chávez was a visionary and passionate leader who dedicated his life to helping some of our most underrepresented communities,” Senator Heinrich (D-NM). “He fought to ensure farm workers earned fair wages, better working conditions, and through practicing non-violence, he inspired a nation to stand up for justice and civil rights. Our country is better because of César Chávez, and New Mexico's heritage is richer because of his influence and legacy. Let us continue César Chávez's vision of service and work together to create a more prosperous country filled with hope and opportunity for everyone.”

“César Chávez was a great American who proudly served his country and defended labor rights for workers everywhere. He overcame discrimination and was a tireless champion for civil rights and social justice. César Chávez deserves to be recognized for improving countless lives and his actions, words, and deeds will continue to resonate and inspire,” said Senator Jack Reed (D-RI).

"César Chávez’s story is a story of resilience, hard work, and inspiring activism,” said Senator Tom Udall (D-NM). “He is hero to me and many other New Mexicans for his efforts to improve working conditions for farm workers nationwide, and for his commitment to social justice. He fought to ensure everyone — no matter their background — had a fair shot at the American Dream. As we continue to work toward that goal, let’s follow his example and work together with the courage, humility, and respect for human dignity that César Chávez was known for."

Cesar Estrada Chavez was born 86 years ago, on March 31, 1927, in Arizona to poor migrant farm workers. Following the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., in 1962 Cesar Chavez co-founded the first successful farm workers union in the United States – the United Farm Workers (UFW) to campaign for safe and fair working conditions, reasonable wages, decent housing, and the outlawing of child labor. He inspired hope in these workers through his great rallying catchphrase, "Sí Se Puede." Cesar E. Chavez was a recipient of the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Prize during his lifetime and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom on August 8, 1994.

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