California Governor Gavin Newsom Celebrates César Chávez Day – March 31, 2025

 

Photo credit: Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr

Governor Gavin Newsom Celebrates César Chávez Day, Calls for Continued Worker Rights Protections

Sacramento, CA – March 31, 2025 – California Governor Gavin Newsom marked César Chávez Day with a powerful message honoring the labor leader’s legacy and calling for continued efforts to protect the rights of workers across the state.

Honoring a Champion for Workers’ Rights

César Chávez, alongside Dolores Huerta, fought tirelessly for the dignity and rights of farmworkers. His historic 300-mile march from Delano to Sacramento in 1966 helped expose the exploitation of laborers and ignited one of the most impactful boycotts in American history.

“Chávez’s leadership rallied the nation and inspired generations to demand fairness and dignity for all workers,” said Governor Newsom.

California’s Commitment to Protecting Workers

Governor Newsom emphasized that California’s labor laws protect all workers, regardless of their immigration status. The state continues to invest in workplace safety, fair wages, and economic protections to uphold the principles Chávez fought for.

“César Chávez taught us that change comes from standing up against injustice and fighting for progress. Today, we honor his memory by continuing the work to protect and uplift workers across California,” Newsom stated.

The Legacy of César Chávez Lives On

Born in 1927 in Yuma, Arizona, Chávez experienced firsthand the struggles of farmworkers. His grassroots efforts led to the formation of the United Farm Workers (UFW) and major labor reforms. Decades later, his impact continues to shape the fight for economic and social justice in California and beyond.

As the state celebrates César Chávez Day, Newsom urged Californians to reflect on his contributions and take action toward creating a more just and equitable society for all.

César Chávez Day: A Time for Reflection and Action

César Chávez Day, observed annually on March 31, is a state holiday in California and a time to recognize the struggles and victories of the labor movement. Californians are encouraged to participate in community service, activism, and advocacy in his honor.

“Together, we build on his legacy and continue to fight for a future where every worker is valued and respected,” Newsom concluded.

FAQs: César Chávez Day & Governor Newsom’s Proclamation

1. What is César Chávez Day?

César Chávez Day is a state holiday in California, observed annually on March 31, to honor the legacy of César Chávez, a labor leader and civil rights activist who fought for the rights of farmworkers and fair labor practices.

2. Why does California celebrate César Chávez Day?

California celebrates César Chávez Day to recognize his contributions to the labor movement, farmworkers' rights, and social justice. His activism helped improve working conditions, wages, and protections for farmworkers across the country.

3. What did Governor Gavin Newsom say about César Chávez Day in 2025?

Governor Newsom praised Chávez’s impact on labor rights and reaffirmed California’s commitment to worker protections. He emphasized that California’s labor laws apply equally to all workers, regardless of their immigration status, and called for continued efforts to safeguard fair wages and workplace safety.

4. How did César Chávez fight for workers’ rights?

Chávez co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) and led major boycotts, strikes, and protests, including the historic Delano to Sacramento march in 1966, which exposed the poor treatment of farmworkers and led to labor reforms.

5. Is César Chávez Day a federal holiday?

No, César Chávez Day is not a federal holiday, but it is a state holiday in California, Arizona, and other states that recognize his contributions to labor rights.

6. Do California workers get a day off on César Chávez Day?

César Chávez Day is recognized as a state holiday for public employees, but whether private businesses close depends on their company policies.

7. How can people celebrate César Chávez Day?

People can honor Chávez’s legacy by:

• Participating in volunteer service and community events

• Learning about workers’ rights and labor history

• Supporting organizations that advocate for fair wages and safe working conditions

• Attending marches, rallies, or educational programs

8. What is Governor Newsom doing to protect workers in California?

Governor Newsom has pledged to strengthen worker protections, enforce fair labor laws, and hold employers accountable for unsafe or unfair conditions, continuing the fight that Chávez started.

9. What was the Delano to Sacramento march?

The Delano to Sacramento march in 1966 was a 300-mile protest led by Chávez to demand better wages and working conditions for farmworkers. It was a turning point in the labor movement and led to nationwide support for agricultural workers.

10. How is César Chávez’s legacy still relevant today?

Chávez’s fight for fair wages, workers’ rights, and social justice continues to inspire labor movements worldwide. His message of nonviolent activism and community organizing remains a guiding force for modern advocacy efforts.