Bernalillo County honors Dolores Huerta and Michael Canfield at annual celebration

The Bernalillo County Commission held an administrative meeting on March 25, 2025, where significant discussions centered around honoring influential figures in civil rights and recognizing community leadership. The meeting began with a heartfelt acknowledgment of Linda Benavides, who was unable to attend due to hospitalization, highlighting the community's support for her recovery.

A key focus of the meeting was the proclamation of April 5, 2025, as the 32nd annual Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta Day. This celebration honors the legacy of these two prominent activists who fought for the rights of farm workers in the United States. The resolution emphasized their contributions to social justice, including the establishment of the National Farm Workers Association Union and their role in historic boycotts and marches. The event will feature Dolores Huerta, who will be celebrating her 95th birthday, and will include a "March of Justice" at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, a unique venue that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area.

In addition to the celebration, the meeting recognized Michael Canfield, the outgoing president and CEO of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC), who will retire on March 31, 2025. Canfield was commended for his transformative leadership over the past decade, particularly in redeveloping the former Albuquerque Indian School campus into a vibrant hub for business and culture. His efforts have significantly contributed to economic development and the preservation of Pueblo culture, leaving a lasting legacy for the community.

Commissioners expressed their gratitude for Canfield's service and leadership, noting the importance of empowering local communities and fostering cultural stewardship. His successor, Monique Fragua, was introduced, and she expressed her commitment to continuing Canfield's vision and enhancing the cultural center's impact.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement and the ongoing efforts to promote social, economic, and environmental justice in Bernalillo County. As the commission moves forward, the celebrations and recognitions serve as a reminder of the power of activism and community leadership in shaping a more equitable future.