LA County changes Cesar Chavez Day to Farmworkers Day, with plans to rename streets, parks, and murals in honor of farmworkers.
Los Angeles County officials have announced a decision to remove the name of renowned labor leader Cesar Chavez from public spaces and observances in light of serious allegations of sexual misconduct against him. The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on March 24, 2026, to eliminate Chavez’s name from parks, murals, libraries, and public programs, including the holiday commemorating his contributions to the labor movement.
The board’s actions are a direct response to testimony from victims, including allegations of sexual assault involving Chavez and others, including Dolores Huerta, during the 1970s. This shift represents a significant reevaluation of Chavez’s legacy, particularly as survivors have come forward to recount their experiences for the first time, as highlighted in a recent New York Times report.
As part of the changes, the county will rename the upcoming holiday from “Cesar Chavez Day,” traditionally celebrated on March 30, to “Farmworkers Day.” This new designation aims to honor all individuals who have advocated for the rights and fair treatment of farmworkers, rather than focusing solely on Chavez.
This renaming initiative is consistent with broader movements within California, where state legislators are also considering transitioning March 31 to “Farmworkers Day.” Furthermore, the motions passed by the Board of Supervisors require county officials to conduct an inventory of places named after Chavez, identifying locations where his name will be removed. The initiative was brought forward by Los Angeles County Chair Hilda Solis, alongside fellow supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Janice Hahn. Their efforts emphasize the need to support survivors of sexual violence while celebrating the history of labor advocacy.
Solis articulated the county’s responsibility to align public recognition with values of justice and respect. Leaders noted that consistent messaging about the contributions of women and diverse groups is crucial, as the labor movement has long included significant input from Filipino, Latino, and other farmworker advocates. The renaming process, which includes changes to public artworks and programs, is expected to be complex and time-consuming.
In a recent development, the Los Angeles Unified School District also voted to recognize March 31 as “Farmworkers Day,” marking a decisive shift away from honoring Chavez in educational settings. This decision is part of a growing trend across California, where institutions are reevaluating the commemoration of figures whose legacies have come under scrutiny due to allegations of misconduct.
In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding Hughes’s legacy, county supervisors are expected to receive a report within 21 days outlining recommendations for the renaming of public properties and engaging the community in this sensitive process. The implications of this decision extend beyond local renamings, reflecting a nationwide discourse on accountability and the reexamination of historical figures in light of their actions.
The county’s commitment to addressing this issue emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for survivors while recognizing the collective efforts of all those who have fought for labor rights throughout history.
