In recognition of César Chávez Day

Today we honor Mexican-American civil rights leader César Chávez on his birthday. Usually, there would be a flurry of events on Milwaukee’s near south side, downtown, and in Madison to honor this hero, advocate and role model.

But this March 31st marks the 2nd year in a row that we must celebrate this day in the midst of a global pandemic.

Although it is a struggle to not be able to enjoy the full revelry this day brings with it, including in-person events, it still affords us an opportunity to reflect on how we can honor César Chávez and carry on his legacy.

I am the granddaughter of a woman who worked in the farm fields of Wisconsin. César Chávez instills much pride in our family because he came from the same humble beginnings as we did. He fought for my grandmother and so many other workers just like her, and is a symbol of the good in all of us, the tenacity in all of us. He reminds us of how great we can be, no matter what, especially when we work together.

This César Chávez Day we must work together, and with each other, to continue to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. I commit to making it through this pandemic with as many of my constituents as possible. Let’s encourage our friends, family and neighbors to receive their COVID-19 vaccine, especially as we continue to see lower numbers of Latino and Latinx Milwaukeeans get vaccinated compared to white Milwaukeeans.

We must educate our family members, co-workers, friends, neighbors and loved ones about the importance of getting their “shot” so that this time next year we can fully celebrate César Chávez day together.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.