California Renames Cesar Chavez Day to Agricultural Workers Day After Abuse Allegations

Overview

• California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law changing the March 31 holiday from Cesar Chavez Day to Agricultural Workers Day after allegations surfaced.
• The New York Times reported that Chavez abused girls and women over decades, including activist Dolores Huerta, based on interviews with more than 60 people.
• The United Farm Workers and the Cesar Chavez Foundation opened a confidential channel for people to share experiences and announced new accountability steps.
• UFW president Teresa Romero said the union is reviewing human resources practices and called Chavez’s actions unforgivable.
• Cities and institutions across the United States began reevaluating honors to Chavez, with some statues covered and several streets and awards renamed.