The upcoming César Chávez Day on March 31 will be renamed Farmworkers Day, Houston ISD announced at the start of its school board meeting Thursday night.
A New York Times investigation revealed that the famous civil rights leader allegedly sexually abused girls during the time he was head of the United Farm Workers of America as well as Dolores Huerta who was the co-founder of the union.
Huerta told the New York Times she kept it a secret for years because she didn’t want to hurt the union movement.
HISD Board Vice President Angela Flowers, filling in for the absent board president Ric Campo, made the announcement at the start of the meeting. Later Thursday night, HISD issued a press statement with the same wording.
“Houston ISD is aware of the recent allegations involving César Chávez. The District recognizes that allegations of this nature can be deeply painful for victims and survivors, and we are mindful of that impact.
“In light of this, the HISD Board of Managers announced at this evening’s Board Meeting that the student and staff holiday currently scheduled for March 30, 2026, will be observed and designated as Farmworkers Day.
“Regarding potential renaming of Chavez High School, the District will follow its established process. There will be time to engage in a thoughtful and timely process, including HISD families. Any recommendations for renaming, as well as changes to next year’s academic calendar, will be brought before the Board.
“HISD will share more information in the coming weeks.”
Chavez is accused of sexually abusing girls as well as Dolores Huerta who was the co-founder of the United Farm Workers of America union. Huerta has said she kept it a secret for all these years because she didn’t want to hurt the union movement.
The HISD board action echoes similar actions throughout the United States, with governmental entities changing César Chávez Day to Farmworkers Day. Others have been canceling events planned in his honor.
In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott said César Chávez Day would not be observed this year by any state agency and he plans to work with the Legislature to remove it as a state holiday.