In response to serious allegations against César Chavez, the labor leader’s commemorations are undergoing significant changes. Many events previously planned in his honor are being altered or canceled, following claims that Chavez engaged in sexual misconduct during his time with the United Farm Workers Union.
Dolores Huerta, a renowned labor rights activist, disclosed that she was among those who suffered abuse by Chavez, who passed away over 30 years ago.
The United Farm Workers organization has reacted quickly by deciding not to participate in any celebrations named after Chavez.
Arizona
Arizona’s governor, Katie Hobbs, will not acknowledge March 31 as César Chavez Day this year, a departure from her actions in the past two years. Though the day isn’t an official state holiday, some local governments in Arizona observe it by closing schools or government offices.
The Phoenix City Council announced a vote on March 25 to consider renaming the city holiday and other public fixtures named after Chavez. Mayor Kate Gallego emphasized the importance of honoring survivors’ dignity in a statement.
Phoenix City Councilwoman Laura Pastor expressed the need to reevaluate how Chavez’s legacy is recognized, while Councilwoman Ann O’Brien called for a thorough review of the holiday. Similarly, Tempe has decided to rename its March 31 holiday.
The Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council postponed its annual César E. Chavez Community Breakfast, intending to shift focus to the accomplishments of Hispanic residents in the area.
Canceled Holidays
Several states, including California, Colorado, Minnesota, Texas, Utah, and Washington, have traditionally observed a holiday on or around Chavez’s birthday. In 2014, President Barack Obama proclaimed March 31 as César Chavez Day, although it remains a commemorative observance rather than a federal holiday.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that the state would not observe the holiday this year, instructing state agency heads to adhere to this change. Abbott also plans to collaborate with lawmakers to remove the holiday from state law.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is considering the implications of the allegations and has not yet decided on any changes to the state holiday.
Canceled Events
In Lansing, Michigan, the Legacy of César Chavez Dinner, initially scheduled for March 25, has been canceled. The event was to feature Julie Chavez Rodriguez, Chavez’s granddaughter, who served as Kamala Harris’ campaign manager.
Milwaukee also canceled its annual celebration, while the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council in Arizona postponed its breakfast event to highlight Hispanic achievements.
San Jose has called off its César Chavez celebration. Mayor Matt Mahan assured that the city would continue to honor the farmworker movement’s legacy without celebrating individuals who caused harm.
The Hispanic Advocates and Business Leaders of Austin, Texas, canceled a march scheduled for March 28, with support from several city leaders to rename César Chavez Street.
The César Chavez Peace and Justice Committee of Denver will not proceed with an event planned for April 11.
The AFL-CIO expressed shock at the allegations and will not participate in activities for César Chavez Day. AFL-CIO leaders stated, “Our thoughts are first and foremost with any victims of assault and abuse who have described experiencing what no one — especially children — should ever have to survive,” in a statement.
Calls for Name Changes
Numerous places across the U.S. bear Chavez’s name, including the César E. Chávez National Monument in California. Dennis Arguelles of the National Parks Conservation Association mentioned that renaming the monument would require congressional action but emphasized the importance of honoring the farmworker movement.
The Lubbock Democratic Party in Texas urged the renaming of César Chavez Drive to honor Dolores Huerta. In Milwaukee, discussions are set to begin on addressing a street named after Chavez.
Portland city councilor Candace Avalos plans to initiate a petition to rename a boulevard after Huerta, requiring 2,500 signatures to proceed.
U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico released a statement condemning any form of abuse, especially against children, as a betrayal of the values championed by Latino leaders.
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