The mission of the Recuerda a César Chávez Committee (RCCC) is to educate our youth and communities about the legacy, life and work of the great American civil rights leader, César Chávez. We do this by promoting his universal values and timeless vision for a better world and engaging our communities in the spirit of service.

 

Our vision is a community that knows its history, celebrates together, understands the importance of service, is actively engaged in improving the life opportunities of its people, and strives for justice for all.

 

The RCCC was founded in 1993 — upon César’s death — and is comprised of a diverse group of dedicated volunteers. Since then, the RCCC is proud to have organized the annual César Chávez Day march and celebration. In 2006, the RCCC established the “Sí Se Puede” awards, given to two individuals who have served their community in the spirit of César Chávez and Dolores Huerta.

 

In 2010, the RCCC began hosting the annual César Chávez Day of Service and Learning where hundreds of local students participate in a seed planting, working of the land, and a planting ceremony at La Plazita Gardens (Bernalillo County Open Space). Aimed to inspire a new and existing generation to engage and actively participate in their communities, the Day of Service and Learning will provide them with the knowledge, skills and opportunities to improve their lives and the conditions of their communities in the spirit of service.

 

The RCCC has also been engaged in community organizing and civic engagement activities that have led to the naming of the César Chávez Community Center, renaming of Stadium Boulevard to Avenida César Chávez and renaming Bridge Boulevard to Avenida Dolores Huerta. The RCCC also successfully advocated for legislation in 2001 to establish an official César Chávez Day state holiday, which passed the New Mexico legislature but was vetoed by then-Governor Gary Johnson.