President Obama’s White House Champions of Change program comes as we observe this year the 50th anniversary of when Cesar Chavez began building the United Farm Workers, one person at a time in one small valley farm worker town after another. Cesar and a small group of dedicated men and women who joined him built a movement based on selfless service to others. In so doing they inspired so many farm workers and millions of others from all walks of life who never worked on a farm to social and political activism. Their example is as relevant today as it was five decades ago.
The UFW’s commemorative events in 2012 include our 50th Anniversary Convention May 17-20 in Bakersfield, Calif., and a five-city California concert tour featuring top recording artists. The White House Champions of Change program, emphasizing nonviolence and aiding the most needy, is also fitting recognition of the cause Cesar and so many others pioneered.
Si Se Puede!
Arturo S. Rodriguez, President
United Farm Workers