San Diego Gay & Lesbian News: Continuing the legacy of Cesar E. Chavez

Cesar E. Chavez is one of the most valiant and heroic civil rights leaders our nation has ever seen. A proud Mexican-American and son of farm workers, his indomitable spirit and compassionate heart continues to serve as an inspiration to many committed to fighting for social justice. It was his work, through political action, peaceful disobedience, hunger strikes, boycotts and marches, which brought about monumental change in our laws by increasing the rights of all workers, and most importantly the protections of migrant farm workers.

Yesterday was Cesar Chavez day. We honored not only the man but his legacy to secure full equality for all Californians. Yet our work should not end by simply reflecting on the plight and empowerment of those who benefited from Chavez’ work. Instead, we must ensure that his work was not all done in vain by continuing fighting for the just and equal treatment of all Californians.

This year, Cesar E. Chavez’ legacy faces unprecedented threats by politicians looking to earn cheap political points. A crucial election year for Californians and the LGBT community, voters will determine this year the state’s direction for the next four years by selecting the state’s next governor. Currently, Meg Whitman and Steve Poizner, two anti-immigrant and anti-marriage equality candidates, have launched hurtful campaigns in hopes of winning the governor’s seat.

Steve Poizner recently released an ad attacking immigrant workers and their families by threatening to eliminate the rights and protections of “illegal immigrants.” Similarly, Meg Whitman vows "to prosecute illegal aliens and criminal illegal aliens in all of our cities, in every part of California."

Whitman and Poizner’s hateful politics threaten to separate hundreds of families and strip many more Californians from basic rights. We must stop both of these politicians’ tactics of terror and help keep Cesar E. Chavez’ legacy alive. You can help make a difference. Register to vote, encourage others to do so, and vote against anti-equality candidates like Whitman and Poizer.