President Barack Obama issued a statement Tuesday in honor of the 82nd birthday of the late Cesar Chavez. Chavez's role as a labor advocate resulted in the foundation of United Farm Workers, and Obama praised the late activist as an "educator, environmentalist, and as a civil rights leader."
Chavez "struggled for fair treatment and fair wages for America's workers is important for every American to remember," Obama said
The mantra and rallying cry of Chavez - "Si, Se Puede," or "Yes We Can" in English - was adopted by Obama for his presidential campaign
"Through his courage, Cesar Chavez taught us that a single voice could change our country, and that together, we could make America a stronger, more just, and more prosperous nation," Obama said.
Most of Chavez's activism took place in California, the home state for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. She also issued a statement on his birthday, praising his dedication to improving the lives of America's farm workers.
"Today, on Cesar Chavez' birthday, we renew our commitment to his fight for equal rights and fair working conditions," Pelosi said. "Our efforts in Congress to bring justice and opportunity to all are the continuation of his work, and his legacy is remembered by millions."
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