Cesar Chavez was an influential activist, labor leader, and civil rights activist who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of farmworkers. He was born in Yuma, Arizona, in 1927 and lived on a small farm with his family. Here are some interesting facts about Cesar Chavez you may not know.
1. Chavez was a migrant farmworker
As a child, Chavez’s family migrated from Arizona to California each year to work in the fields. This experience gave him first-hand knowledge of the harsh working conditions and the injustices that farm workers faced.
2. He started working in the fields at a young age.
Chavez started working in the fields when he was just 10 years old. He left school after the eighth grade to work full-time in the fields.
3. Chavez served in the Navy
After finishing his service in the Navy, he returned to California and started organizing farm workers to fight for fair wages and better working conditions.
4. Chavez founded the National Farm Workers Association.
In 1962, Chavez founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers of America. He led the union in its efforts to secure rights, benefits, and better working conditions for farmworkers across the United States.
5. He promoted nonviolent actions
One of Chavez’s main principles was nonviolence. He believed that the best way to bring about change was through peaceful, nonviolent actions such as strikes, boycotts, and rallies.
6. His birthday is a state holiday in California and Texas
To honor his contributions to the labor and civil rights movements, the states of California and Texas observe March 31st as Cesar Chavez Day.
7. Chavez was awarded posthumously the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Chavez passed away in 1993, but his legacy continues to inspire others. In 2014, President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
