Arizona Legislature Moves to Repeal Cesar Chavez Day
In a significant legislative development, Arizona lawmakers are taking steps to abolish “Dr. Cesar Estrada Chavez Day,” traditionally observed on March 31. Although not a paid holiday, the day has been recognized annually in the state.
House Speaker Steve Montenegro has highlighted that Governor Katie Hobbs has opted not to issue her yearly proclamation for the day, a decision that is separate from the existing statute. “We are not going to keep honoring a man who committed sexual abuse against children and assaulted women,” Montenegro, a Republican from Goodyear, stated. He emphasized that the Senate Committee on Regulatory Affairs and Government Efficiency’s consideration of this measure next week should not be contentious.
Senate President Warren Petersen expressed confidence in the measure, stating it “should receive unanimous, bipartisan support.” Democratic leaders, while expressing support for the survivors of the alleged abuses, have not commented on the holiday itself.
Legislative records reveal that the holiday was established in 2000 but faced opposition from two Republican senators and 11 Republican members of the state House. The current legislative proposal seeks a straightforward repeal.
This move contrasts with initiatives in California, where legislators are considering renaming the holiday to Farmworkers Day. This aligns with the perspective of Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers of America, who recently revealed she was twice assaulted by Chavez. Huerta has advocated for commemorations to honor “the martyrs of the Farm Worker movement.”
