WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer and Congresswoman Susan Davis (both D-CA) praised the passage of legislation to rename a post office after labor and civil rights leader Cesar Chavez. Boxer’s bill, S. 748, would name the office at 2777 Logan Avenue the “Cesar E. Chavez Post Office.” S. 748 passed the House of Representatives by voice vote today and was approved by the Senate in August.

Senator Boxer said, “Cesar Chavez committed his life to others by fighting for fair wages, safe working conditions, livable housing, and quality education for all. I am pleased that this legislation honoring his legacy will soon become law.”

“Cesar Chavez is a legendary figure in the struggle for human and civil rights,” said Davis, who sponsored the House bill, H.R. 1820. “This recognition for Mr. Chavez is long overdue. It is time that we honor this man who fought to improve labor conditions and civil rights, and who is an inspiration and role model to millions.”

Chavez began his activism in the 1940s when he pushed for better wages and working conditions for migrant workers. With the Community Service Organization, he helped register Mexican-Americans to vote. His fame grew as he led a boycott against California grape growers to protest living conditions for farm workers.

Chavez served in the Navy during World War II. He died in 1993 and was the second Mexican-American to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award.

The House approval clears the bill for signature by President Obama.


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