La Voz Nueva: Denver remembers Cesar Chavez’s legacy

Coloradans remember Chavez on his March 31 birthday thanks to the efforts of former Colorado State Reps. Frana Mace and Rob Hernandez who sponsored a bill later signed by Gov. Bill Owens to create Colorado’s Cesar Chavez state holiday. It was overdue, but not too late to honor a Hispanic hero who strived for better labor conditions and human rights.

In the height of a restless decade Chavez arrived at the right place and time. In 1962 he and Dolores Huerta founded what would become the United Farm Workers or UFW. Like his contemporary activist Martin Luther King. Jr., Chavez practiced non-violent civil disobedience. Through boycotts, marches, fasts, picketing and strikes, the UFW eventually was able to improve working conditions for farm laborers from California to Florida.

Some fifty years after its founding, the UFW logo –– a black Aztec Eagle against a deep red background –– still remains instantly recognizable today. The UFW slogan was “Viva La Causa” and crowds assembled shouting the now familiar: ¡Si Se Puede! and ¡Viva la Huelga!

The 1960s and 1970s civil unrest may have faded but the political protest movement continues for social and economic justice from various segments of the political spectrum. As we celebrate his legacy, it’s important to remember that Chavez also fought for basic health care for workers and reduction of cancer-causing pesticides, issues that benefit all Americans.

Huerta, long recognized as a brilliant UFW field organizer, fundraiser and feminist advocate, keeps busy in the 21st century. Although 82 years old this year she remains an active civil rights leader on hand to support legislative initiatives. In addition, she is a speaker at colleges coast to coast, oversees the Dolores Huerta Foundation and sits on the board of Equality California. She has received honorary degrees from Princeton and Mills College and awards from women’s groups and the White House.

Guided by his religious beliefs, Chavez arrived during a turbulent civil rights movement that included a cross-section of religious leaders, ethnic minorities, college students and the working poor. We honor his achievements and remember his struggle through various events in Denver including an annual mass and march and various city and state programs.

The Chicano Humanities and Arts Council (CHAC) will present a children’s program on Tuesday, March 27, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Byers Branch Library, 675 Santa Fe Drive. For information call 720-865-0160.