Christine Chavez

Christine Chavez

Christine Chavez has a made a lifetime commitment to public service, civil rights and the labor movement. Born in Delano, California, Christine Chavez was surrounded by the farm worker movement. For years, she worked with the United Farm Workers Union, the organization her grandfather Cesar Chavez helped to co-found 40 years ago.

For eight years, Christine Chavez served as the UFW's Political Director. While there, her responsibilities included raising public awareness to protect the civil rights of farm workers and the larger immigrant community. She helped elect candidates, pass legislation and oversee public outreach activities. Latina Magazine named Christine Chavez one of their top Latinas of 2004 for her longtime involvement with civil rights issues.

Christine Chavez displayed a commitment to the labor movement at an early age. At the age of four, during the grape boycott, she was arrested with her family for refusing to leave the front of a Detroit store that continued to sell grapes.

Chavez's commitment has extended to other unions. She was engaged in SEIU, Local 1877's battle against Los Angeles International Airport. She fought in UNITE HERE Local 11's battle against the hotel industry. And she organized rallies in support of UFCW's protracted Southern California strike.

Every year, Christine oversees the annual Cesar Chavez Walk where over 10,000 people gather to honor the legacy of the great labor leader. She is responsible for mobilizing schools, colleges, unions, churches and community groups. She has also worked with several animal rights groups in the fight to ban foie gras in California and Chicago.

Recently, Christine Chavez joined Rev. Al Sharpton to announce the formation of the Latino and African American Leadership Alliance. Troubled by the escalating violence between Latinos and African Americans, Chavez worked with the Reverend to organize a march to correspond with the Watts riots of 40 years ago. The Alliance will also sponsor community forums, outreach to schools and enlist the help of policymakers to further this important cause. Christine's work is based on the values passed down to her from her grandfather: the fight for civil rights, social justice and labor equality.

 

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