The following is a press release from Latino Lubbock Magazine:
The César E. Chávez Commemoration Committee will pay tribute to American hero and civil rights leader, César E. Chávez, during Lubbock’s 20th Annual César E. Chávez People’s March and Celebration, with the annual march to be held Saturday, March 30, 2019.
This year’s theme, “Courage Within” describes a characteristic that many great heroes have led with, as well as pays tribute to commitment to social justice and respect for human dignity by Chávez.
César stood as one of our nation’s most outstanding leaders for peace, justice and non-violence. A strong believer in the principles of nonviolence practiced by Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., he effectively employed peaceful tactics such as boycotts and fasts.
Chávez also maintained his commitment to non-violence even in the face of violent attacks from growers. In 1968 he embarked on a spiritual fast for 25 days to affirm his personal commitment and that of the farm labor movement to non-violence.
“We take pride in honoring this American hero who was a great example of courage, and who humbly stayed committed to nonviolence, and humanity,” said Martinez-Garcia, annual event organizer.
“This march is significant, and we can proudly say that in the Lubbock community we have sustained Chávez’s legacy by holding this march for 20 years. It is a re-enactment of the initial march led by Chávez, more so, his most profound undertakings for the cause, which were inspired by his deep spirituality, and to peace and non-violence.”
She said that all are invited to join community and student organizations, and many individuals committed to quality of life for migrant and farmworkers, religious organizations, and advocates of non-violence.
“In a time when there seems to be a growing amount of hate and violence, we continue to take steps to assure peace…even if it begins with a march, we take those steps courageously and proudly,” concluded Martinez-Garcia adding, “We all posses it, we just have to put it into action.”
The event is organized by a citizen driven committee that are committed to bringing public awareness about Chávez’s legacy, and especially encourages youth involvement.
WHAT: Cesar E. Chavez People’s Honor March and Commemoration. Theme: “Courage Within”
WHEN: 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2019 (Shuttle service will begin at 12:15 p.m. from Cavazos Middle School (Drop spot for cars), to Canyon Lakes/Buddy Holly Recreational Area (Starting point of march), march will end at Cavazos Middle School.
WHERE: March begins at N. University and Cesar E. Chavez Drive in Lubbock, Texas, to Cavazos Middle School parking lot, 210 N. University Ave..
ETC: The public is encouraged to wear sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and hats. Groups are encouraged to bring their banners and wear their organization t-shirts. Seniors or those disabled may drive behind the marchers.
(This is a press release from Latino Lubbock Magazine.)
