EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – City of El Paso officials announced they will observe March 31 as an official municipal holiday this year, but under a new name.
Traditionally recognized as Cesar Chavez Day, city officials announced the holiday will instead be observed as Community & Labor Heritage Day.
According to the city, the updated observance is intended to ensure public programming remains respectful, inclusive, and aligned with community values, while continuing to recognize the enduring impact of farmworkers, working families, labor leaders, and community advocates.
The change comes as recent concerns involving allegations of sexual abuse tied to Cesar Chavez surfaced. “City officials acknowledged the seriousness of those reports as they continue to be addressed publicly.”
FILE – Cesar Chavez, a farm worker, labor organizer and leader of the California grape strike, is seen in a California works office in 1965. (AP Photo, George Brich, File)
Earlier this week, the United Farm Workers union distanced itself from annual celebrations of its founder, Cesar Chavez.
Cesar Chavez celebrations canceled after ‘shocking’ allegations surface, union says
In a statement Tuesday, the union said allegations of “abuse of young women or minors” were concerning enough to urge people around the country to participate in immigration justice events or acts of service instead of the typical events in March to commemorate Chavez’s legacy.
The union said it has not received any direct reports of abuse and does not have any firsthand knowledge of the allegations. Neither the union nor the Cesar Chavez Foundation responded to requests from The Associated Press for further comment.
“Some of the reports are family issues, and not our story to tell or our place to comment on,” the union said in its statement.
Dolores Huerta says Cesar Chavez assaulted her, fathered 2 of her children
Community & Labor Heritage Day in El Paso is expected to be accompanied by a series of events and programs throughout March focused on themes of culture, resilience, service, and collective action. City officials said the programming is designed to foster learning, reflection, creativity, and community connection while recognizing the vital role of working families in shaping the region.
City of El Paso honors farmworkers, labor leaders with events amid controversy
City facilities will observe the holiday in accordance with standard holiday operations, with essential services continuing as scheduled, the city’s news release sent out Wednesday, March 18, stated.
Editor’s Note: The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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