César Chávez Day, also known as Cesar Chavez Day or simply Chávez Day, is an American federal holiday commemorating American labor leader and civil rights activist César Chávez. It is observed annually on March 31, or on the following Monday if March 31 falls on a Sunday.
Brief History
César Chávez Day was established by the United States Congress in 2014, signed into law by former President Barack Obama and was first observed in 2015. The holiday was created to honor Chávez’s legacy of fighting for the rights of farmworkers and other marginalized communities. “Chavez left a legacy as an educator, environmentalist, and a civil rights leader. And his cause lives on. As farm workers and laborers across America continue to struggle for fair treatment and fair wages, we find strength in what Cesar Chavez accomplished so many years ago. And we should honor him for what he’s taught us about making America a stronger, more just, and more prosperous nation,” said then President Obama.
Significance
César Chávez Day is a time to reflect on Chávez’s life and work, and to celebrate his contributions to the civil rights movement and the labor movement. It is also a time to recommit ourselves to the fight for social justice and economic equality. Chávez Day is also commemorated to promote service to the community in honor of Chavez’s life and work.
How to Observe
There are many ways to observe César Chávez Day. Here are a few ideas:
- Learn more about César Chávez. Read books, articles, and websites about his life and work.
- Watch a documentary about Chávez. There are several documentaries available, including “Cesar’s Last Fast” and “The Fight in the Fields.”
- Attend a César Chávez Day event. Many communities hold events to commemorate the holiday, such as parades, festivals, and workshops.
- Volunteer your time to a cause that Chávez cared about. This could include working with farmworkers, fighting for immigrant rights, or promoting environmental justice.
- Educate others about César Chávez. Talk to your friends, family, and community members about his life and work.
César Chávez Day is a day to celebrate the legacy of a great American hero. It is also a day to recommit ourselves to the fight for social justice and economic equality.
“Once social change begins it cannot be reversed. You cannot uneducate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the people who are not afraid anymore…you cannot stamp out a people’s cause.”
