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Farmworkers Day Arrives in Phoenix Amid Changes From Cesar Chavez Allegations
Arizona lawmakers moved to repeal the holiday after misconduct allegations against Chavez; Tucson, Tempe, and Phoenix renamed the day, with the House voting 48-8 on March 30.
On Monday, the Arizona House passed a measure repealing Cesar Chavez Day, sending the bill to Governor Katie Hobbs. The legislation follows The Senate's earlier repeal vote.
A New York Times investigation this month detailed allegations that Cesar Chavez raped two minors and Dolores Huerta, prompting bipartisan support for the repeal. Lawmakers acted because victims deserve recognition.
The House approved the repeal by a 48-8 vote on Monday. House Speaker Steve Montenegro stated, "Arizona law should not honor a man tied to sexual abuse."
Phoenix and other cities have moved to strip Chavez's name from public facilities and rename the holiday as Farmworkers Day. The Phoenix City Council will report back in 30 days on progress.
This repeal reflects a wider shift in how the Southwest recognizes the former leader, as other states also remove holiday honors. Critics suggest this transition offers an opportunity to change the narrative from a cult of personality to a people's history.