Newsom says he is "processing" reporting on Cesar Chavez-related revelations and urges care for students

During a question-and-answer session at San Lorenzo High School, Governor Gavin Newsom addressed recent reporting tied to Cesar Chavez and related revelations about a longtime activist identified in remarks as 'Dolores.'

"I just read the article this morning. None of us knew," Newsom said, describing the material as difficult to absorb and urging a deliberative response. He said he and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom were "processing" what they had learned and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability while also acknowledging the emotional impact on students.

Newsom said he was open to changes under consideration but urged careful review: "We're having conversations in a very public way right now... seek first to understand before we're understood," he said, adding that staff-level discussions and caucus conversations in Sacramento would continue and that reporting would follow.

He framed the response as balancing support for victims with a need for fuller understanding: "We want to have the backs of our victims, but it's a sensitive, sensitive moment," he said. Newsom asked for grace for students who might be processing potential name changes or other consequences tied to school identity.

Event participants and students asked whether a holiday or school name should change 'to reflect the movement instead of the name.' Newsom said he was open to the idea of changing names but stressed that the administration would not rush and that department and caucus conversations would shape next steps.

What happens next: Newsom said staff-level and caucus discussions in Sacramento would explore potential responses and that the public could expect additional reporting and conversations as officials learn more.