Community celebrates Cesar Chavez legacy

The life and legacy of farm worker rights leader Cesar Chavez was celebrated in Brawley on Saturday night. Organizers said they claim Chavez as a local boy.

Event Organizer Eric M. Reyes said, “Lived here. Went to school here, to one of the 47 different schools that he went through in his life as a migrant, as many of the families here. At some point or another, we’re all migrant families.”

Reyes said the event is a tradition for the last 14 years.

“We used to do it at the cattle call arena. Now we’re able to – thank goodness to the city of Brawley – we’re able to close down the street and have a community festival. As you can see everyone is really enjoying family festivities, great music, and a great time,” Reyes said.

Brawley Mayor George Nava said it brings families together countywide.

“It’s a community event. It brings people out for a worthy cause. And it brings not just the residents of Brawley, but many residents from throughout Imperial County,” Nava said.

Reyes said the event reminds people that one life can make a difference.

“To remember what he fought for: equal justice, equal pay, honor and respect for those who work,” Reyes said.

He said it’s also an opportunity to recognize other local leaders.

“There are many more Cesar Chavez’s that people don’t know about within their own communities. That’s why we recognize great people as well,” Reyes said.
He said the name Cesar Chavez means a lot of things to some people.

“Cesar Chavez means opportunity. Cesar Chavez means justice. Cesar Chavez means being who you want to be, not being told who you’re going to be,” Reyes said.

Reyes said music was a big part of Chavez’ movement, so, on Saturday, music was at the forefront.