Labor and civil rights pioneer Cesar Chavez will be making an appearance in classrooms across the state, thanks to a free poster created by NYSUT to help members celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.

The bilingual poster is designed to better inform students about the life of Chavez, whom Robert F. Kennedy called "one of the heroic figures of our time."

Chavez, a former migrant farm worker, rose from humble beginnings to found the United Farm Workers. At the helm of UFW, Chavez led successful strikes and boycotts that won better wages and working conditions for America's farm workers. Chavez was a pioneer of the American civil rights movement. New York leaders, including teachers union pioneer Al Shanker, marched with Chavez in boycotts of California grape growers.

"Cesar Chavez is an inspirational figure who created new opportunities and better conditions for millions of Americans," said NYSUT Vice President Maria Neira. "We hope that his spirit of hard work, sacrifice and determination will be an inspiration to New York's students."

The poster, which features the headline "Dare to make the world better," offers a biographical sketch of Chavez and is accompanied by a painting by Maine artist Robert Shetterly. Shetterly has painted several famous Americans for his "Americans Who Tell the Truth" series; his works have been exhibited across the country. NYSUT members can get one free copy of the poster by sending an e-mail to orders@nysutmail.org. Please reference Project No. 514c. You can also call (800) 342-9810, ext. 6260.

NYSUT local presidents can request posters in bulk; shipping and handling charges will apply and will be calculated for you before the order is filled. Quantities are limited.

NYSUT's Web site, http://www.nysut.org/, contains a printable version of the poster.

— Kevin Hart