Local organizers remember César Chávez

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Communities across Arizona celebrated César Chávez's legacy on César Chávez Day as organizers in San Luis hosted a day of action to honor his work and uplift immigrant voices.

Event organizers say this day of action is about more than just remembering César Chávez. It's about equipping the community with knowledge and resources to continue his work.

The event, hosted by Rural Arizona Engagement (RAZE) and community partners, features a commemorative mass, know your rights training, immigration law info sessions, and a rally calling for justice.

"It's just so that our community knows what to look for, instead of letting those fearful forces convince them to do something that they don't have to do," said Andrea Varela, Organizing Director of RAZE.

Part of the message also focuses on the rights of farmworkers, a cause that César Chávez fought for throughout his life.

Brian De La Hoya, Chair of LD23 Democrats, says, "There's a saying that if we don't pay attention, we may repeat history again. And we need to be alert, we need to pay attention to what type of legislative bills are being passed, what's happening in the actual working spaces."

Organizers say this day of action is a reminder that compassion and understanding should lead the conversation on immigration.

"I just urge you to act with kindness, act with dignity, act with respect. There's no need to deport everybody you come in contact with, there's no need to ask for everybody’s status...that's just fear-mongering," said Varela.

As the community rallies to honor Chávez's work, the message remains clear: knowledge is power, and justice is worth fighting for.