San Jose, CA ----  Celebrations recognizing the life and legacy of César Chávez will be held in San José over the next two weeks to commemorate his birthday on March 31.

 “César Chávez was a great American who taught us that injustice anywhere affects us all everywhere,” said Mayor Ron Gonzales. “He was a tireless advocate for justice, opportunity, and dignity for working families, farmworkers and the dispossessed. His life continues to be an inspiration to the people of San Jose and the nation.”

According to Councilmember Nora Campos, "César Chávez was a man with a boundless vision who dedicated his life's work to the cause of social justice. He has left a resounding legacy that has radically transformed the lives of many working families."

Tuesday, March 26 

-         12 noon:  Rally in front of San José City Hall.  Sponsored by HACE, Hispanic Association of City Employees. Speakers include: Vice Mayor George Sirakawa, Jr., Councilmember Nora Campos and Rita Medina (Cesar Chavez’s sister).

-         1:30 p.m.: San José City Council meeting.  Presentation of commendations to members of the Chávez family and Chávez Family Vision, Inc.

           Monday, April 1

-         8:00 a.m.:  Commemorative Breakfast sponsored by City of San José at Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock Ave. Event features Mayor Ron Gonzales, Vice Mayor George Shirakawa, and Councilmembers Nora Campos and Cindy Chavez.  $25 charge.  For tickets call MHP Box Office at (408) 928-5564.

Monday, April 1

-         10:00 a.m.:  Free film screening of “Common Man, Uncommon Vision: The César E. Chávez Story” and conversation with Chávez’s brothers and sisters about his life and legacy. Sponsored by Mexican Heritage Corporation and the César E. Chávez family. For information call MHP Box Office at (408) 928-5564.

          Saturday, April 6

-         9:00 a.m.:  March to celebrate Chávez birthday.  Start at Roosevelt Park at East Santa Clara St and 19^th Street, end at Plaza de César Chávez in downtown San José. For information call (408) 258-6580 or (408) 923-3854.

-         All day:  Festival at Plaza de César Chávez in downtown San José. Featuring dancing, food, and entertainment by local bands, mariachis and folklorico.  For information call (408) 258-6580 or (408) 923-3854.

Background:  Chávez dedicated his life to the cause of social justice. An agricultural laborer from an early age, he started his career of organizing communities and farmworkers in 1952 when living in East San Jose.

Together with Dolores Huerta, Chavez began his crusade against the harsh physical and social treatment of farmworkers in California. They established the United Farm Workers Organization in 1962 and helped organize a strike to obtain union contracts and improve working conditions for agricultural laborers.  Today, Cesar Chavez is recognized as one of the most important labor and civil rights leaders in the nation's history.

Governor Gray Davis signed legislation in August 2000 to establish a state holiday in recognition of César Chávez’s birthday on March 31, 1927.  The City of San Jose joined the state when it declared a local holiday to honor Chavez last year. This year City of San Jose offices will be closed on Monday, April 1, in observation of the holiday.

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