Colorado Senate renames Cesar Chavez holiday to 'Farm Workers Day' after abuse allegations cited

The Colorado Senate on March 30 voted unanimously to rename the voluntary legal holiday observed on March 31 from Cesar Chavez Day to Farm Workers Day, saying the new title honors farmworkers and the movement they led while distancing the state from allegations against Chavez.

Senator Cutter moved the bill for third and final reading after the clerk read the title. Senator Danielson urged support, saying the change preserves recognition of the contributions of farmworkers and the broader movement while responding to “recent heartbreaking news” about allegations of abuse by Cesar Chavez. “We honor the cultural importance of farmworkers in Colorado,” Danielson said, and recommended an ‘‘aye’’ vote.

Senator Benavides used the floor to correct a factual point he had made previously: he said he was mistaken to suggest there had been no unionized farms in Colorado, citing a 1973 court case and the Mel Fenerman farm in Center, Colorado, where the AFL‑CIO and United Farm Workers organized. Benavides urged a yes vote after correcting the record.

The motion carried on voice vote; the clerk recorded a final tally of 35 ayes, 0 noes, and the bill was passed and cosponsors were entered. Sponsors and supporters said the change keeps attention on the movement and its participants rather than an individual whose conduct has been called into question.

The bill’s passage follows expedited floor action; the Senate placed the measure on third reading and approved final passage the same day. The bill does not change statutory holidays beyond the name of the voluntary observance and will be reflected in the state’s holiday references if enacted into law.

The Senate proceeded to other calendar business after passage.