Students at California State University, Stanislaus gathered together Wednesday to celebrate the legacy of farm worker, labor leader and civil rights activist Cesar Chavez.
Students stopped at informational booths, played games, and sang karaoke, filling the quad at CSU Stanislaus as the commemorative celebration of Cesar Chavez took place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“It’s exciting to see that our campus is remembering an important man who played a role in giving rights to oppressed fieldworkers,” said Michelle Topete, a senior studying Spanish and Anthropology at CSU Stanislaus. “It’s really important for us to remember him, especially here in the Valley.”
Students were also given the opportunity to create a poster that reflects Chavez’s work, accomplishments, philosophies and at least one of his values.
From 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, students and the community-at-large were invited to attend a special keynote address at the University Event Center featuring Armando Elenes, the National Vice President of United Farm Workers, an organization founded by Chavez. The evening event also featured various entertainers.
Cesar Chavez remains a major historical icon for Latino Americans, as a civil rights activist who promoted Latino workers and union laborers. Chavez died at the age of 66 in 1993.
March 31 was deemed an official holiday in the State of California in 1995 to promote community service in honor of Chavez. Many schools observe Cesar Chavez Day, including CSU Stanislaus.
