Unveiled in September 2002, a commemorative stamp honoring the legacy of Cesar E. Chavez was made available for purchase recently. The stamp features rows of lush green farm land in the background and the smiling side-profile of the legendary labor organizer and nonviolence practitioner in the foreground. Cesar’s motto of “si se puede” (it can be done) speaks to all of us who face obstacles, set backs, and/or doubts. His deeds set a shining example of overcoming odds, helping others, and affirming life. It is fitting to remember him now with April 23rd, 2003 being the 10th anniversary of his passing.
Paul Chavez, Chairman of the Cesar E. Chavez Foundation, shared these thoughts at the unveiling ceremony, “My father’s teachings of compassion, justice and dignity still ring true almost a decade after his passing. The Cesar E. Chavez commemorative stamp is a powerful vehicle to introduce a new generation of Americans to his vital legacy, teaching them that through determination and hard work they can improve their own lives and communities.”
It is not enough to remember him though. We must continue his work. For example, the vision and mission of the Cesar E. Chavez Foundation is to maximize human potential to improve communities by preserving, promoting and applying the legacy and universal values of civil rights leader Cesar E. Chavez. Their youth outreach programs emphasize service-learning, which combines community service and academic coursework to address needs in your immediate community. Visit their website for resources to organize your own event honoring Cesar Chavez: http://www.cesarechavezfoundation.org/.
Read an essay about Cesar Chavez written for our Peace Heroes Essay Contest: https://www.wagingpeace.org/articles/peaceheroes/cesar_chavez.htm. Do something!