Central Michigan Life

Issue date: 10/17/07 Section: News

Media Credit: Krista Mayo Julie Chávez Rodríguez, granddaughter of César Chávez, speaks to students and faculty Monday night in the Bovee University Center Auditorium. "I think there are few people that can say in their lifetime that they met their hero," she said. "Not only did I meet him, now I have the opportunity to share what I have learned from him and his beliefs and philosophies with so many others." [Click to enlarge]

Si se puede!

Or, "Yes, it can be done!"

Julie Chávez Rodríguez told more than 400 students and faculty packed into the Bovee University Center Auditorium that no matter how many people say it cannot be done - one person can make a difference.

"Don't let people tell us we can't do something," she said. "Especially when we have seen that other people have come to greatness."

The granddaughter of César Chávez spoke Monday night as the keynote speaker for Minority Student Services' Hispanic Heritage Month program.

Chávez Rodríguez said, as the program director of the César E. Chávez Foundation, she works to improve communities by preserving, promoting and applying the legacy and universal values of her grandfather.

Assistant Director of MSS Shawn Wilson said it was inspiring to hear someone who was so close to Chávez speak on his behalf.

"Folks who came out got to hear firsthand about one of the, hands down, greatest civil rights leaders," he said.

Chávez Rodríguez said it still moves her to think a man with only an eighth grade education was able to get 17 million Americans to boycott grapes 40 years ago.

"He said 'If I don't, no one else will,'" she said.

Alma Senior High School sophomore Kaylee Moreno said Chávez Rodríguez piqued her curiosity.

"There was a lot that I didn't know," she said. "It's really important to me because it's part of my culture."

Moreno said the quotes from the elder Chávez his granddaughter shared really hit home with her.

"It spoke so much truth," she said. "What's cool about it, is that it is really inspiring to all cultures."

Bridgman senior Megan Goodenough said Chávez Rodríguez showed what a person can achieve.

"She was really empowering," she said. "The message is a good one. It really applies to anyone and everyone."

Wilson said while he wished more faculty, staff and senior officers had been there, he was glad so many students showed their interest.



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