Dionisio “Dennis” Chávez

Dennis Chávez
Author: Harris & Ewing, Source: Harris & Ewing collection at the Library of Congress, no known copyright restrictions;

Born April 8, 1888 in NM

Died 1962

First Latino elected to a full term in the US Senate in 1936.

Had to quit school at 13 to help support his family.

A Democrat whose legacy was his civil rights agenda, by fighting tirelessly against discrimination and poverty throughout his career.

Worked to end all racial and ethnic biases by establishing a Fair Employment Practices Commission.

Served as US House Rep. for 4 years (1931-35) and US Senator from 1936 to 1962, over 30 years of service.