Arizona Gov. Hobbs signs bill to remove Cesar Chavez Day as a state holiday

PHOENIX — Arizona will no longer observe Cesar Chavez Day as a non‑legal state holiday, following swift legislative action and a bill signed by Gov. Katie Hobbs on Wednesday.

“Like so many others, I’m deeply troubled by the recent revelations about Cesar Chavez,” Hobbs said in a statement. “After learning the troubling news, I decided not to recognize Cesar Chavez Day this year and have signed legislation to repeal the observance of March 31 as Cesar Chavez Day.”

The Democrat’s decision to sign HB 2072 comes after the United Farm Workers union and the Cesar Chavez Foundation distanced themselves from annual celebrations of their founder, citing new allegations of abuse of young women or minors.

“While I know signing this bill won’t erase the pain, my thoughts are with the victims and everyone affected,” Hobbs said.

Why governor decided to end observance of Cesar Chavez Day

Lawmakers moved quickly on HB 2072 following a March 18 New York Times investigation that detailed previously unreported allegations of sexual abuse involving Chavez. The report prompted a national reassessment of his legacy.

Hobbs signed the bill into law two days after the House passed a Senate-approved bill to end the observance of the holiday and sent it to her desk.

“I’m working with community leaders to find meaningful ways to honor and celebrate our farmworker community and their continued contributions to the state of Arizona,” Hobbs said.

She added that she’s incredibly grateful for the state’s farmworkers.

“Their resilience is evident in the lettuce fields of Yuma and the orange-picking farms of Mesa. Arizona’s farmworkers are the backbone of our state’s economy,” Hobbs said. “I remain committed to supporting them and ensuring their contributions are recognized with dignity and respect.”

Metro Phoenix leaders ending celebration of Cesar Chavez Day

State leaders aren’t the only ones cracking down on Cesar Chavez Day celebrations. Local leaders have also been busy, especially in Phoenix.

Last week, the Phoenix City Council voted unanimously to strip Chavez’s name from streets and parks. It also dropped the citywide holiday in his honor.

Additionally, Phoenix Union High School District has voted to change the name of Cesar Chavez High School.

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