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California Seeks Farmworkers Day as Cities Remove César Chávez Memorials

Officials are canceling celebrations, removing imagery, convening reviews to shift recognition toward the collective farmworker movement.

Overview

  • California legislative leaders introduced a bill to rename the March 31 state holiday to Farmworkers Day, with Gov. Gavin Newsom saying he supports passing it this month.
  • Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said the state will not observe Cesar Chavez Day, and Sen. Carol Alvarado plans legislation to strike the holiday from statute, with a proposal to honor Dolores Huerta on April 10 instead.
  • Universities and cities reported swift removals or coverings, including a boxed statue at Fresno State, a shrouded mural at Sonoma State, a removed statue and covered plaque in San Fernando, covered murals at Santa Ana College, and a removed bust in Denver.
  • San Jose leaders began an inventory of Chavez-related sites and will hold public hearings on potential renamings, while Santa Clara County keeps March 31 as a holiday this year but will emphasize the farmworker legacy.
  • School districts and universities across California are reviewing curriculum, school names and campus memorials; the United Farm Workers withdrew from Chavez Day events as community groups emphasize survivor support and confidential reporting.