City of West Hollywood to Review Future Commemoration of César Chávez Day Following Recent Reports

The City of West Hollywood has, for many years, recognized César Chávez Day as an important opportunity to honor the contributions of farmworkers and the broader movement for dignity, equality, and justice for workers and marginalized people. It is a federal commemorative holiday, as well as a state holiday in California, observed annually in March to recognize the birth and legacy of the civil rights and labor leader.

Recent media reports have raised allegations that César Chávez may have engaged in inappropriate and abusive conduct toward young women and minors. This news is very serious and deeply troubling. Our hearts are heavy as we hear these accounts, and we stand with survivors.

As communities across the nation process this news, the United Farm Workers (UFW) has announced it will not participate in commemorative events this year. In addition, farmworker union co-founder Dolores Huerta has issued a public statement describing the profound difficulty of coming forward with her truth after many years. California lawmakers have announced their intent to change the name of the holiday to "Farmworkers Day."

The City of West Hollywood has long been committed to advancing social justice and the rights of workers. In light of these developments, the City will engage in a discussion at an upcoming City Council meeting regarding how it will commemorate the farmworker and labor rights movement moving forward, including the ongoing struggle for fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity for workers. This discussion will center and uplift survivors, acknowledge the importance of listening to those whose voices have too often gone unheard, and be guided by the City's core values of respect and support for people, and responsiveness to the public. The City will also continue to closely monitor evolving discussions at the local and state levels as jurisdictions evaluate potential changes.

There will be no recognition activities in West Hollywood this year. West Hollywood City Hall and certain City facilities will be closed on Monday, March 30. We recognize that no single individual defines a movement; rather, movements are shaped by countless people. The City of West Hollywood remains dedicated to honoring principles of justice and equality, and to ensuring that our actions reflect a commitment to accountability and the well-being of our community.

If you or someone you know has experienced abuse or violence and needs support, resources are available. Visit the City of West Hollywood's Human Services webpage at www.weho.org/humanservices or call (323) 848-6510. You may also contact Peace Over Violence at www.peaceoverviolence.org or (213) 626-3393, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673), or visit www.rainn.org for confidential support.