Rep. Cárdenas Issued the Following Statement on the passing of Helen Chávez
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Tony Cárdenas (D-CA) today released the following statement marking the death of Helen Chávez:
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of civil rights leader Helen Chávez, the widow of one of my personal heroes, César Chávez. My thoughts are with the family and friends she leaves behind.
“Helen Chávez dedicated her life to helping her husband organize farm workers. Both she and César fought tirelessly to ensure that the American Dream was attainable for all workers. They changed the way laborers were treated and ensured that human rights were guaranteed no matter the stature of the job.
“I come from a family of farm workers, so the mission of the Chávez family hits home. When I introduced my first bill H.Res.132 I wanted to honor the life’s work of César, as well as the lives of all farm workers. Helen had an essential role in César’s accomplishments. At a time when we as a nation are choosing a leader, her passing is a reminder that we must continue to uphold labor and civil rights across the nation.
“Helen Chávez leaves behind a legacy that changed the labor industry in the United States. I am honored to continue to be an advocate for the work of both Helen and César, and look forward to observing their legacy for years to come.”
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