The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors is approving the establishment of March 31 as an annual County Holiday and Day of Service in recognition of the late labor leader and founder of the United Farm Workers, Cesar E. Chavez.
Supervisors will consider final adoption of the ordinance on June 9, at 9:30 a.m., and the holiday will take effect beginning in 2016.
“Given the civil rights legacy and significance of Cesar Chavez to this region, coupled with the fact that the State of California created the holiday in 2000, it is long overdue that Sacramento County step up and honor his contribution,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Phil Serna. “The day will commemorate Cesar Chavez’ birth and very appropriately be used to promote community service and civic engagement.”
In a letter dated June 3, 2015 from Cesar Chavez’ son and President of the Cesar Chavez Foundation Paul Chavez and UFW President Arturo Rodgriguez, each thanked the County of Sacramento for setting the holiday, and especially for using it as a means to encourage giving back to the Sacramento community.
A survey of comparative jurisdictions showed that the County of Sacramento has approximately one less holiday overall compared to other jurisdictions. Sacramento County currently celebrates 12 County holidays prescribed in Personnel Ordinances, and holidays are included in collective bargaining agreements. The Office of Labor Relations will work with the Recognized Employee Organizations to implement the change to the bargaining agreements.
Note: The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the action on 6/9/2015.
