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United Farm Workers Endorses Sen. Obama

SALINAS – On Saturday, June 14, the United Farm Workers, its executive board and worker leadership from throughout the United States whole-heartedly threw its support behind Sen. Barack Obama in his quest to be the country’s next President.

Sen. Obama accepted the endorsement from the UFW during a rousing 12:00 noon call with the union, in which the union’s executive board and 100 elected worker leaders participated.

“Throughout his career, beginning as a community organizer to his present position as Senator, Barack Obama has shared the values of the United Farm Workers. He understands the tremendous role played by our country’s farm workers in helping to feed our nation. Sen. Obama stands firm in his conviction for comprehensive immigration reform. He has been a strong supporter of the UFW-sponsored AgJOBS – legislation that would help stabilize our nation’s agricultural workforce.

As President, he will continue to hold fast to his convictions by signing comprehensive immigration reform, increasing the minimum wage and making sure every American has affordable and quality health care. The United Farm Workers will do everything in our power to make sure Barack Obama reaches the White House this fall, because we know he will be a voice for all working Americans,” said UFW President Arturo Rodriguez.

The UFW, founded in 1962 by Cesar E. Chavez and Dolores Huerta, and often described as the conscience of the labor movement for its inspiring fight for low-wage working families, is the first successful farm labor union in the history of the United States. Throughout its 40 years history, the UFW has worked to organize farm workers, raise wages and improve working conditions for its member and all farm workers.