who was cesar chavez

Cesar Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist known for co-founding the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers union. Born in 1927 in Yuma, Arizona, to a Mexican- American family, Chavez grew up as a migrant farmworker and became a prominent advocate for farm laborers' rights. He led major strikes and boycotts, most notably the Delano grape strike, focusing on nonviolent methods to secure better pay, working conditions, and protections for farmworkers. Chavez's efforts earned him national recognition, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously in 1994. He is celebrated for his dedication to justice, equality, and dignity for farmworkers and the broader community.