Source: Cesar Chavez Foundation

Photo:  Helen and Cesar Chavez with six of their eight children in 1969 at the United Farm Workers’ “Forty Acres” property outside Delano. Standing from left are: Anna, Eloise and Sylvia. Seated are from left Paul, Elizabeth and Anthony.

June 6, 2016 (Keene, Ca.) - Helen Fabela Chavez, 88, who played a vital role helping her husband give birth to what became the first enduring farm workers union in U.S. history—and sustained Cesar Chavez during the 31 years he led the United Farm Workers of America—passed away today, Monday, June 6 at a Bakersfield hospital surrounded by many of her seven surviving children, 31 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.