The 21st Annual Cesar Chavez March
& Day of Service
to be held March 26, 2022
Inaugural Day of Service
The César E. Chávez Commemoration Committee will pay tribute to American hero and civil rights leader, César E. Chávez, during Lubbock's 21st Annual César E. Chávez People's March and Celebration, with the annual march to be held Saturday, March 26, 2022, announced event organizer Christy Martinez-Garcia.
This year's theme, "Si Se Puede, Yes, it can be done" serves as a tribute to his commitment to social justice and respect for human dignity.
César stood as one of our nation's most outstanding leaders for peace, justice, and non-violence. A strong believer in the principles of nonviolence practiced by Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., he effectively employed peaceful tactics such as boycotts and fasts.
Chávez also maintained his commitment to non-violence even in the face of violent attacks from growers. In 1968 he embarked on a spiritual fast for 25 days to affirm his personal commitment and that of the farm labor movement to non-violence.
"We take pride in honoring this great American hero who humbly stayed committed to nonviolence, and humanity," said Martinez-Garcia, annual event organizer.
"This march is significant because it is a re-enactment of the initial march led by Chávez, more so, his most profound undertakings for the cause, which were inspired by his deep spirituality, and to peace and non-violence."
She said that all are invited to join the community and student organizations, and many individuals committed to the quality of life for migrant and farmworkers, and to non-violence.
"In a time when there seems to be a growing amount of hate and violence, we must take steps to assure peace...even if it begins with a march for peace," concluded Martinez-Garcia, especially encouraging Veterans, church groups, non-profits, students of all ages, and the general public of all backgrounds.
The event is organized by a citizen-driven committee that is committed to bringing public awareness about Chávez's legacy.
WHAT:
Cesar E. Chavez People's Honor March and Day of Service. 2022 Theme: "Service Above Self"
WHO: Cesar E. Chavez Commemoration Committee, event hosted by Los Hermanos Familia. Day of Service in Partnership with the Volunteer Center of Lubbock, and Keep Lubbock Beautiful. With special thanks to Citibus.
WHEN:
12:30 to 3 p.m., Saturday, March 26, 2022 (Shuttle service will begin at 12 p.m. from Canyon Lakes/Buddy Holly Recreational Area (Drop spot for cars) to Cavazos Middle School (Starting point of march), the march will end at Canyon Lakes/Buddy Holly Recreational Area. The clean-up event will begin immediately following
WHERE:
March begins at Cavazos Middle School parking lot, 210 N. University Ave to N. University and Cesar E. Chavez Drive in Lubbock, Texas. The clean-up event will be held at Buddy Holly Lake & at the HealthBeat Equipment.
ETC:
The public is encouraged to wear sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and hats. Groups are encouraged to bring their banners and wear their organization t-shirts. Seniors or those disabled may drive behind the marchers.
Those participating in the Day of Service are urged to bring gloves and wear close-toed shoes.
For additional information please call Christy Martinez-Garcia at (806) 544-6526, or email loshermanosfamilia@gmail.com .
About César E. Chávez
Chávez's significance and impact go beyond anyone cause or struggle. The son of migrant laborers, Chávez led a nonviolent boycott against California grape growers, protesting poor working conditions and the use of pesticides harmful to farmworkers. He is recognized for his nonviolent approach to handling adversity and even fasted to call attention to the migrant workers' cause. Although his dramatic act did little to solve the immediate harms, it increased public awareness of the problem. The boycott was finally successful in winning new rights for workers.