Since 2000, El Paso and other states have observed César Chávez Day as an official state holiday, honoring the birthday and legacy of the labor leader and civil rights activist. The day traditionally meant a paid day off for state employees, with many government offices, schools, and libraries closed in recognition.
If you drove around El Paso you knew that Chávez’s presence in El Paso runs deep. His image is featured in murals across the city, his name is tied to the border highway and a YISD youth academy. Now, that legacy is being reevaluated.
Recent sexual abuse allegations made by fellow labor activist Dolores Huerta, who worked alongside Chávez for decades, have gained national attention, sparking conversation across Texas and here in El Paso about how Chávez has been honored and what comes next.
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El Paso Responds to Controversy Surrounding César Chávez with Policy Changes
As a result of the recent allegations, several changes are already happening across the state and in El Paso.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the state will not recognize César Chávez Day this year and is considering eliminating it permanently.The City of El Paso will still observe March 31 as a holiday, but it will now be called Community & Labor Heritage Day instead of César Chávez Day.Ysleta Independent School District: A trustee is calling for the renaming of César Chávez Academy following the allegations.UTEP: The university announced it will no longer observe César Chávez Day on March 27 and will instead add Good Friday (April 3) as an official holiday.
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These decisions place El Paso among a growing number of communities reevaluating how they recognize historical figures in light of serious accusations.
If I’m being honest, when I read the news I was disappointed, but more than that I was proud. Proud of Dolores for speaking up after years of silence because that takes undeniable courage.
Dolores Huerta coming forward represents strength that deserves recognition. So as the city looks at renaming holidays and reshaping traditions, maybe the conversation shouldn’t just be about removing a name but about honoring courage. Maybe it’s time to consider something new, like Dolores Huerta Day. (And if the day falls during Women’s History Month, EVEN BETTER!)
Pachuco Style In El Paso
A few shots of Pachuco or Zoot Suit style here in the Sun City courtesy of Christian Churches Photography
Gallery Credit: Christian Churches
The Oasis Outside of El Paso: Cornudas, Texas
This Guy Bought a Whole Texas Town & Turned It Into a Wild West Party Oasis.
Gallery Credit: Courtesy: Jon Jasniak via YouTube