Even though he is no longer with us, his hard work, persistence, and willingness to sacrifice has influenced many. Cesar Chavez stood up for what he believed in, and did all he could to make change for those who were treated unfairly. His motive was to give people what was taken from them; their dignity.

Arizona House Bill 2281 now ARS 15-112, the proposal to ban ethnic studies from TUSD schools is an example of the type of injustice that Chavez stood up against. Most, including Cesar Chavez, would agree that this is a tactic to stop Latino students from learning about their culture, their heritage, and the many contributions that we, Latinos, have made to this great country.

In this sense, ethnic studies is helping students realize that their history and culture are important, and helps them gain a cultural and intellectual identity that can be lost during their time in our educational system. This being said, ethnic studies is designed for all students. Even if the majority of the students who make up these classes were to be Latinos, it should not be assumed that these classes were only designed for them. Walking in to one of these classes someone can see that they are made up of students from many different cultures and ethnic backgrounds.

On another note, ethnic studies, teaches its students to love and respect all people. Cesar Chavez’s philosophy of nonviolence to create change and promote progress fits well with the goals and objectives of ethnic studies.

The class’ main focus is to motivate students to go above and beyond the violence of low expectations. It encourages students to advocate for progress by first educating themselves. Which then leads us to understand that one of the most significant and valuable things we can have in our life is education.

Cesar Chavez once said, "Real education should consist of drawing the goodness and the best out of our own students. What better books can there be than the book of humanity?" Therefore, like Chavez we are willing to take a stand for our education.

Ethnic studies classes have demonstrated that they can help students improve: their AIMS performance, their grades, and help them graduate at a rate that is higher than students who are not enrolled in these classes.

Personally, I feel these classes have given me a sense of self-worth and empowerment. These classes have helped me realize that I can overcome any obstacle that I may face in life.

In the future, I plan to take what I have learned to not only help myself but others, so that together, we can create a world that is filled with greater equality and justice for all.