San Antonio Seeks Input on Renaming César Chávez Boulevard
The City of San Antonio is seeking public input on renaming César E. Chávez Boulevard following allegations of sexual abuse against the late labor leader, detailed in a recent New York Times investigation. A city survey, launched Monday, asks residents – particularly those living along the stretch of road between Southwest 36th Street and South Hackberry Street – for suggestions and feedback on a new name for the street.
The survey, available in both English and Spanish, will remain open until April 2. City officials stated that a street name change will only be considered for “significant reasons.” The boulevard, originally designated South Fifth Street in the city’s first plat in 1852, was later renamed Durango in the 1880s before being changed to honor Chávez in 2011.
The move comes after the publication of a comprehensive report by the New York Times on March 18, outlining allegations of sexual misconduct by Chávez, including claims of abuse involving women and girls connected to the United Farm Workers movement. The allegations have prompted widespread reevaluation of Chávez’s legacy and a wave of cancellations of events honoring him.
In San Antonio, the César E. Chávez Legacy & Educational Foundation announced on March 19 that it would cease operations in response to the allegations. The foundation, responsible for organizing the city’s annual César Chávez March for Justice, stated the decision was made to uphold the values it has championed for over 30 years. District 5 Councilwoman Teri Castillo was the first to formally request the city manager initiate the process of potentially removing Chávez’s name from city recognition.
The fallout extends beyond San Antonio. Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced on March 18 that the state would no longer observe César Chávez Day on March 31, and intends to work with the state legislature to remove the holiday from the state calendar during the next legislative session. The Mexican American Legislative Caucus called the allegations “deeply disturbing” and expressed readiness to lead efforts to remove the state holiday.
Similar actions are occurring in other Texas cities. Organizers in Houston and Austin have canceled their annual César Chávez Day marches. La Unión del Pueblo Entero (LUPE), a South Texas organization, announced it would not participate in any Chávez-related events this year, deeming the allegations “shocking and disturbing.”
In place of observing César Chávez Day, the City of San Antonio has designated Friday, April 3, as a “City Holiday” with offices closed. The city will also host public community meetings to discuss the potential renaming of César E. Chávez Boulevard, with dates and locations to be announced.