The White House is honoring farmworker and activist Rogelio Lona as one of ten individuals recognized as "Champions of Change," a program that pays tribute to local leaders who embody César Chávez's values of service.
Each week, the leaders are picked from a different sector and can range from educators and businesspeople to activists. In addition to his farmwork, Lona is an activist and community organizer. He has worked in the fields of California for more than 47 years and been a member of the United Farm Workers for 32 years. The event comes on the eve of César Chávez Day, celebrated on March 31, and promotes service in communities as a tribute to Chávez's life and work.
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This initiative is part of Obama's Winning the Future enterprise and I absolutely love the concept! I think it's incredibly important to recognize all of the individuals who have dedicated their lives to bettering their community and the country. Doing so not only serves as an acknowledgement of their hard work, but also (hopefully!) as motivation for others to take a more active role in their neighborhood as well. I know I'm definitely feeling inspired!
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Plus, anything that honors Chávez is worthwhile in my book. He was such a significant role model not only for the Latino community, but for the whole world. It's great to see that his work and his legend lives on in people like Lona.
Want to learn more about César Chávez? Watch the video below:
Embedded content: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj4ya_Gyq80
What will you do to honor César Chávez Day?
Image via The White House
