AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced Wednesday that the state will no longer observe César Chávez Day and has directed all state agencies to comply, while also stating that he will work with lawmakers to remove the holiday from state law.
The announcement comes amid growing controversy following allegations of sexual misconduct against the late labor leader César Chávez, which surfaced decades after his death and have sparked reactions across Texas.
In a social media post, Abbott said the “horrific and widely acknowledged” allegations undermine Chávez’s image as a figure worthy of official celebration.
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The decision comes as Austin organizations, including HABLA, PODER, and LULAC, had already canceled the city’s annual César Chávez March originally scheduled for March 28, citing “caution and respect for all parties.” Similar events in Houston, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi have also been suspended.
Additionally, local leaders in Austin — including city council members and county officials — have expressed support for renaming Cesar Chavez Street, calling the allegations “deeply disturbing.”
At the state level, the Mexican American Legislative Caucus (MALC) also called for removing Chávez’s name from the state holiday, saying the allegations represent “a profound betrayal” of the values he claimed to champion, and suggested honoring other figures such as Dolores Huerta instead.
César Chávez Day, observed on March 31, is currently an optional state holiday in Texas, where some state offices remain open with limited staff.
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The controversy continues to develop as political leaders and community organizations consider the future of public tributes to the historic labor leader.