BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — March 31 throughout the state of California is Cesar Chavez Day. The state holiday honors the life and work of the former Latino labor leader. All state offices, community colleges, courts and libraries are closed.

Cesar Chavez helped found the United Farm Workers Union and would have been 81 years old on Monday. He is credited with helping create a stronger farm workers union built from former Latino and Filipino unions in 1966.

The UFW and preceding farm worker unions helped farm workers who were working under inhumane conditions obtain better wages and benefits and fight the perils of pesticide dangers. Chavez also helped the farm workers movement become one of nonviolence, having fasted more than once. He also led many strikes, boycotts and marches over at least three decades.

Meanwhile, about 400 people turned out in Delano Sunday to celebrate Cesar Chavez’ birthday. Delano is where the UFW was headquartered for several decades. People marched in a parade waving United Farm Worker Union flags.

Organizers said now it’s up to future generations to carry on his legacy.

Organizers also said Chavez is a role model for all Americans and for generations to come.

In 1962 Chavez founded the National Farm Workers Association, which would later be merged into the United Farm Workers.

Chavez died 15 years ago. His successor is UFW President Arturo Rodriguez.