In a memo released Wednesday, district 5 councilwoman Teri Castillo proposed exploring a possible renaming process with public participation.
SAN ANTONIO — This year’s César E. Chavez March for Justice has been canceled following sexual abuse allegations reported in a New York Times investigation involving civil rights leader César E. Chavez.
The annual event, typically held on the last Saturday of March to coincide with Cesar Chavez Day, draws thousands of participants for a two-mile march on the city’s west side.
In response to the allegations, San Antonio District 5 Councilmember Teri Castillo is calling for community input on whether to rename César E. Chavez Boulevard and the city’s Chavez-related holiday.
“When I read it, I was disheartened and disgusted,” Castillo said, referring to the reported allegations. “What came to mind is how do we engage the community to hear if this is something they would like to initiate a conversation about?”
In a memo released Wednesday, Castillo proposed exploring a possible renaming process with public participation. She emphasized San Antonio’s deep labor history and suggested there are other local labor leaders who could be recognized.
“There’s opportunity and a wealth of labor organizers that we can continue to honor,” Castillo said, adding that the broader mission of labor rights should remain the focus.
The League of United Latin American Citizens said in a statement:
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) unequivocally condemns any form of sexual violence against women and minors and strongly denounces the actions alleged involving the late Cesar Chavez. No individual, regardless of stature or legacy, is above accountability when it comes to protecting and upholding the dignity of others. LULAC stands with all victims of sexual abuse and affirms that no one has the right to exploit or harm children or women under any circumstances. We extend our deepest concern and solidarity to those who have suffered.
The actions of one person neither reflect nor diminish the integrity of the farmworker movement. LULAC remains unchanged in its support of the farmworker movement and the countless men and women who, for generations, have labored in the fields, often unseen and unheard, to sustain their families and feed this nation. Their contributions are indispensable, and their voices must be respected and protected. Our commitment is clear: to uphold dignity for all, to support those who have been harmed, and to continue advancing the civil and human rights central to the promise of America.
“Community organizing is about a movement and not an individual,” Castillo said. “It’s important to highlight the role of labor organizers as a whole in fighting for workers’ rights.”
In the New York Times report, members of the Chavez family said the allegations are “deeply painful” and expressed support for those who come forward with claims of sexual misconduct.
Organizers of the march said they are expected to meet privately and plan to release a statement Thursday.
In a social media post Wednesday, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that the state will no longer observe César Chavez Day, which is March 31 and directed that all state agency heads comply.