FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Dozens of people gathered at Fresno State today to honor late farm labor leader Cesar Chavez.

The observance is part of National Farmworker Awareness Week, which runs from March 25th to March 31st.

Tuesday a group of mariachis kicked off the week long event followed by the traditional garland ceremony of the Cesar Chavez statue on campus.

Students set up displays commemorating Chavez’ life and the barrio art collective began work on a 6 panel mural depicting the struggles of migrant workers.

United Farmworkers of America representative Tanis Ybarra says it’s exciting to see today’s youth recognize an important figure in the Latino community and culture.

"He was a man of nionviolence and I think he’d want everyone to live in peace and help eachother. I think he would have wanted us to help the less fortunate and for us to get involved in our communities and improve all situations… and in improving everyone’s plight," Tanis Ybarra of United Farm Workers of America

The observance also included a moment of silence for Chavez brother, Richard, who died in July.

A candlelight vigil will be held at 6pm on Friday March 30th at the Chicano Youth Center on Divisadero Street.