César Chávez Day: El Paso students march to honor civil rights activist
Chanting "si se puede!" around a few blocks in El Paso’s Segundo Barrio this morning, about 120 elementary students from La Fe Preparatory School marched to honor and remember civil rights activist César Chávez.
"Marching for César Chávez is important because he fought for the field workers because they were being treated unfairly," said third-grader Marisa Ramos, 9. "We want to continue celebrating everything he did."
One of the most historical icons for Hispanics, Chávez was a labor leader and activist who co-founded the United Farm Workers. He died in 1993.
César Chávez Day is celebrated on his birthday, March 31.
"If he could stand up for what was right, we could, too," Ramos said.
After marching waving renditions of the United Farm Workers flag, the students released red and white balloons from the school’s playground at 616 East Father Rahm Ave.
"It¹s so great to hear them yelling from the pits of their hearts for something and someone they’re proud of," said Estela Reyes, spokeswoman for the Centro de Salud Familiar La Fe. "It¹s beautiful to see our children learning about their history and their culture."
La Fe will hold a César Chávez celebration from 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday at 721 S. Ochoa. The event will include live music, food, entertainment and a children’s area. The event will be free to the public.