Every year on March 31st, the United States celebrates César Chávez Day. This day was proclaimed by former president Barack Obama in 2014 to commemorate the birth of the Mexican-American activist who fought for the rights of agricultural workers and founded the Union of Farm Workers of America.

While Chávez Day was declared a federal holiday, some states have chosen to make it optional. This means that the closure of government offices, banks, and schools will depend on the region in which you reside.

States that Recognize César Chávez Day

If you live in one of the following states, government offices, banks, and schools will be closed on March 31st:

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado* – It is an optional holiday
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• New Mexico
• Texas* – It is an optional holiday
• Utah* – It is a holiday or optional
• Washington
• Wisconsin

It’s important to note that the only official celebrations at the federal level are New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day), Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

As we celebrate César Chávez Day, let’s remember his legacy and the important work he did to improve the lives of workers in the United States.

Have a meaningful holiday!