The Barelas neighborhood in Albuquerque filled with marchers Saturday morning to honor activist Cesar Chavez.    

Demonstrators said they feel the immigration debate has created an anti-Latino sentiment throughout the country. They said Chavez would be disappointed in the way some Latinos are treated today.

"He would be upset to see an anti-Latino sentiment, because he fought against that. He was one of the early pioneers of immigration reform. In 1986, he helped get amnesty for millions of people," resident Sayrah Namaste said.

Marchers said the struggle for civil rights is present today with anti-Latino sentiments in neighboring Arizona.

"We are neighbors of Arizona, so we are very aware of what is happening. (We also know) of the national debates where immigrants are often scapegoated. We are proud to be Latino and Hispanic," Namaste said.

Demonstrators said the march on Cesar Chavez Day is a sign of hope. Nearly 500 people joined the rally, including several children.

"This is my first time marching with the parade. I’m really excited," marcher Fawn Benally said.

Cesar Chavez Day has become a holiday in many states. President Barack Obama declared a national day of observation for the activist.