Washington State to recognize March 31st as Cesar Chavez Day!

After five years of advocacy from many individuals and organizations including CCS/CHS, the Latino Civic Alliance, Catholic parishes, State Legislators and many more, the State of Washington is recognizing March 31^st as Cesar Chavez Day. Governor Inslee will be signing the bill into law on Saturday, March 31, 2018, in Yakima. 

By celebrating Cesar Chavez Day we honor his legacy as an educator, environmentalist, and civil rights leader. Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) was an American WWII veteran and a humble man with an amazing faith. He grew up during the depression facing hardship and injustice. Inspired by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and other visionary leaders, Cesar Chavez based his campaign on principles of nonviolence which he called “ the quality of the heart.”  He became a community leader and founded the United Farm Workers with Dolores Huerta, launching one of our nation’s most inspiring social movements.

Decades after his struggle began, Cesar Chavez’ enduring legacy lives in all who draw inspiration from his values of service, hope, determination and community. By recognizing Cesar Chavez, we recognize the farm worker community and are reminded that every job has dignity, every life has value, and everyone, no matter who they are, should have the opportunity to thrive and advance in life as they are able. This solidarity calls us to honor farm workers in our own community and recognize their humanity, their hard work to harvest the food we eat, and to embrace them with respect.

Inspired by Cesar Chavez’s legacy, CCS/CHS continues his legacy of advocacy for the farm worker community. With your support, CCS/CHS is able to help empower farm worker residents and families by promoting health, education and economic opportunities. Click here to learn more.