House votes to rename Cesar Chavez Day 'Farm Workers Day,' sponsors cite survivor testimony

The Colorado House passed House Bill 13‑39, renaming the voluntary legal holiday observed on March 31 from "Cesar Chavez Day" to "Farm Workers Day."

Sponsors framed the bill as centering farm workers and acknowledging survivor testimony. The bill sponsor said the effort "started with survivors" and urged the House to respond "with integrity." "By creating Farm Workers Day, we are not honoring a man," Representative Garcia said; "we are honoring the movement and the thousands who fought and continue to fight for fair work practices."

Supporters stressed that the change is intended to preserve history while removing honorific recognition of one individual amid serious allegations. Representative Duran noted the bill "is not meant to erase history; it is to reframe our recognition to the people who carried the work." Several members referenced Dolores Huerta's decision to come forward and praised her courage.

Opponents raised concerns about due process and the difficulty of adjudicating historical allegations where the named individual is deceased, but many members said the change is an appropriate symbolic correction and an opportunity to focus on the labor movement and the workers themselves.

The House considered the measure and recorded the passage by voice vote; the clerk announced the bill had passed on the floor that day.

Next step: the bill proceeds in the legislative process for any further steps toward final enactment and implementation.