March 31 is Cesar Chavez Day, a US federal commemorative holiday. As of 2025, only seven states observe Cesar Chavez day, including California. Sonoma State University closes to commemorate Cesar Chavez on March 31 every year. Cesar Chavez Day is intended to promote service to the community and educational programs to honor Chavez.

The library has gathered some resources in this guide to help you learn more about Chavez and his legacy. 

Cesar Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist. He was born in 1927 in Yuma, Arizona. His family moved to California after losing their property in Arizona, and worked as migrant laborers. Chavez left school after finishing junior high in 1942, and became a full-time farm laborer. 

Learn more about his life with these resources. 

If you want to learn more about farm workers conditions before Chavez, check out some of these books.