By Inés Guérin
"Si, se puede." This sentence, which means "Yes, it can be done," was Cesar Chavez's life motto. Many people think he proved this phrase to be true because his work for the fair treatment of farm workers changed the lives of millions of people.
The Office of Students Activities will host a celebration tonight to celebrate the legacy of Chavez, Sarai Geary, a junior communication studies major, said. The objective of this dinner is to make students aware of some current immigration issues and of what Chavez has done for the Latino community.
Chavez (1927-1993) was a Mexican-American labor activist and leader of the United Farm Workers. During his life he served as the voice for farm workers who move from place to place in order to find work. His work drew national attention to these laborers' working conditions, which eventually led to improvements.
Tacos, chilaquiles, jalapeño salsa, tortilla, sopes and chicken enchiladas are just some of the traditional Mexican dishes that will be served tonight, March 29, at 6:30 p.m. in St. Mary's Lounge.
According to Geary, this event will be a nice cozy night with a sit-down dinner that allows students to get to know each other and feel more connected to one another.
"Hopefully, this activity will inspire us a little," Geary said.
Also, Felix Jus Teclabvo's band will play live "cumbia" music. Mexican cumbia is a form of dance and music found in Mexico, derived from music originating in Colombia, and called "cumbia" during the Spanish colonial times. It consists of several different rhythms and is usually very fast in pace.
Latino community leader Connie Garcia will speak about Cesar Chavez and immigration issues. Her family was one of the first worker families to come to Oregon in 1937. Garcia grew up picking corn in the countryside and, along with her mother, has been involved with the United Farm Workers movement since the beginning of the movement.
According to Garcia, UP students should know and celebrate Chavez's life because he recognized the importance of "making a sacrifice to achieve a goal."
"You always have to give up or lose some things in order to accomplish higher objectives," Garcia said.
In Garcia's case, like many other college students, going to school meant being far from her family and choosing a direction in life that was not always supported by her parents.
Garcia has lived in Oregon for nearly 50 years. She is now retired but is still teaching English as a second language.
"I learned from Chavez that life can be painful at times, but the effort and sacrifice is worth it, especially if you are committed to your own community," Garcia said.
