California Celebrates Its First Farmworkers Day

California Renames César Chávez Day to Farmworkers Day Amid Allegations

LOS ANGELES – California has formally rebranded César Chávez Day as Farmworkers Day, marking the first observance under the new name on Tuesday. This change follows serious sexual abuse allegations against Chávez, a prominent figure in the civil rights movement.

The decision, which garnered local support from Mayor Karen Bass and the Board of Supervisors, transitions the holiday’s focus to honor the collective contributions of farmworkers rather than a single individual. While state offices and courts will be closed to observe the day, city and county administrative offices will remain operational, having observed the holiday on Monday.

The shift comes in light of a New York Times investigation that reported multiple allegations of sexual assault and manipulation against Chávez, with accusations dating back to the 1960s. Among those alleging misconduct is Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers, who described her experiences of being "manipulated and pressured" by Chávez, revealing that she remained silent for decades due to fears of police hostility toward the labor movement and doubts about having her claims believed.

In response to the allegations, Los Angeles city officials and the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) have also transitioned their observance from Chávez to Farmworkers Day. County supervisors are pursuing measures to erase Chávez’s name and likeness from public facilities.

"The abuses of one man should not diminish the extraordinary sacrifices and accomplishments of the farmworker movement," said County Supervisor Janice Hahn, underscoring that the legacy belongs to the workers themselves.

Timeline of Events

• 1960s–70s: Period of alleged sexual misconduct detailed in recent reports.
• March 2026: The New York Times publishes comprehensive allegations against Chávez.
• Last Week: LAUSD and the Board of Supervisors approve the name change, with Mayor Karen Bass issuing an executive order.
• Monday, March 30: City and County offices observe Farmworkers Day.
• Tuesday, March 31: Official observance of Farmworkers Day; state offices and courts remain closed.

The county is in the process of establishing a formal method to remove Chávez’s name from public buildings and facilities. Meanwhile, discussions may arise regarding a permanent statewide name change in future legislative sessions, although the California government continues to classify the day as a state holiday. The formal new names for schools and facilities in the Los Angeles area are yet to be determined, pending a community-driven process expected to conclude by Fall 2026.