non-violent and lawful protest.  She suffered broken bones, but never a broken spirit.  I'm proud to call her my teacher, my role model, and mi hermana.
Dolores embodies the meaning behind this prestigious honor. Through her courage and devotion, she has not only served as a source of inspiration for millions, but she has made the world a better place.
At 82 years young, she still continues to empower people through the Dolores Huerta Foundation, which organizes low-income immigrant communities in the Central San Joaquin Valley for better access to education, health care, fair lending and a cleaner environment.  Her passion for justice has expanded to include women's equality, reproductive rights and LGBT issues. Her dancing eyes and sweet voice continues to inspire people across the country and around the world, just like they did for a young girl from La Puente who grew up to be the first Latina in a President's cabinet.  Today, she is my mentor, advisor and wonderful friend.  And she is still beautiful.