Did you know that civil rights and labor movement hero Cesar Chavez was an animal rights activist too? Chavez spoke this fundamental truth when we presented him with our In Defense of Animals’ Lifetime Achievement Award, “We must respect all life without exception … The basis for peace is respecting all creatures.” His mission to end the abuses of animals and farmworkers has never been more urgent. Watch and share his powerful message now to mark Cesar Chavez Day on March 31.

“We cannot defend and be kind to animals until we stop exploiting them. Exploiting them in the name of science, exploiting them in the name of sport, exploiting them in the name of fashion, and, yes, exploiting them in the name of food. The basis for peace is respecting all creatures.” — Cesar Chavez, 1992, accepting the Lifetime Achievement Award from In Defense of Animals.

Chavez brought awareness to the struggles of farmworkers, advocating for better pay and safer working conditions. Like In Defense of Animals, he was dedicated to nonviolence, opting to use tactics such as boycotts, pickets, and strikes; he even made lengthy personal hunger strikes. Through the United Farm Workers of America, Chavez brought dignity to farmworkers and greater recognition of their important work to feed the nation.

The pandemic has brought the extreme plight of farmworkers into plain view once again. You can make a difference for farmworkers and exploited farmed animals: choose plant-based options and a vegan lifestyle. Get your free copy of our wildly-popular vegan starter guide now: www.idausa.org/vegguide