Minnesota leaders reassess César Chávez legacy after abuse allegations

Top Minnesota lawmakers said they will move to repeal the state law recognizing César Chávez Day after a New York Times investigation reported abuse allegations.

Top Minnesota lawmakers from both parties said they will move to repeal the state law that designates March 31 as César Chávez Day. Governor Tim Walz said he supports the effort and will not issue a proclamation recognizing the day in light of the recent allegations. The announcements follow a New York Times investigation that reported abuse allegations involving César Chávez and new allegations from a longtime associate. What leaders announced: - State lawmakers said they will introduce legislation to repeal the law recognizing César Chávez Day. - Gov. Tim Walz said he supports the move and will not issue a proclamation, and House Republicans expressed support for renaming the day. - The New York Times investigation reported allegations of abuse involving Chávez, and a longtime colleague has publicly voiced additional allegations; Chávez died in 1993 and his family described the reporting as devastating. Summary: The announcements set in motion a legislative path to remove the state designation and have prompted local officials to review Chávez-related names. Rep. Maria Pérez-Vega plans to introduce a bill to repeal the state holiday, and St. Paul and Minneapolis officials said any local renaming would follow established administrative and community review processes.