César Chávez holiday bill introduced in Nevada legislature

Introduced on March 11, Assembly Bill 301 states that "The State of Nevada desires to recognize the many contributions César Chávez made to the State of Nevada and the United States."

Chávez, who died in 1993 at the age of 66, frequently walked picket lines with union workers in Las Vegas and was honored with northern Nevada’s first César Chávez Day by the City of Reno during his 1986 visit to speak to union members.

The annual Washoe County School District César Chávez essay contest is again underway and students are encouraged to enter. Last year’s topic was "Should Congress declare a national holiday to honor César Chávez?" One of this year’s themes asks writers to analyze commonalities between Chávez and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Entrants will again compete in three age categories at elementary, middle and high school levels. Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers at the March 31 dinner.

Washoe County School District students may obtain rules and entry forms at their schools. They are also available online in English and Spanish at CesarChavezNevada.com.

All entries must be received by 12:00 noon on Tuesday, March 24, 2008, submitted via school mail or regular mail to Sue Davis, Teaching American History Project Director, P.O. Box 30425, Reno, NV 89520-3425.