March 31st is César Chávez Day, a state and County holiday in recognition of his efforts to empower and improve the lives of farmworkers here in California and across the nation. Chávez is also honored locally by the Plaza de César Chávez in downtown San José.
César Chávez and his wife moved to the Alum Rock area of San José in the early 1950s and raised their family in a small home that still stands near the Mayfair Community Center. While there, he ran the local chapter of the Community Service Organization, a civil rights group that also trained his future collaborator, Dolores Huerta. He also helped found a church. Chávez was greatly influenced by Catholic teachings around social justice and the dignity of all people.
Using principles of nonviolent protest and labor organizing, Chávez, Huerta, and others formed the United Farm Workers Association (UFW) in 1962 and set off to draw the public's attention to their cause through marches, actions including grape strikes, and lobbying of elected officials. Chávez led the UFW for over four decades, during which time working conditions improved for field workers and awareness increased around the crucial and challenging service that they perform. Chávez was the face of the movement and frequently spoke at college campuses and other gatherings to raise general awareness.
Learn more about César Chávez with Biography and U.S. History online resources, and these books in our catalog in English and in Spanish. Here are a few titles of many available to get you started!
