Each spring, as César Chávez Day approaches, we pause to reflect—not just on what Chávez accomplished in his lifetime, but on what his work still asks of us today. His vision of dignity, justice and collective action still lights a path through the uncertain times we’re navigating in 2025. We are living in a moment when worker rights are under attack, especially for immigrants, farmworkers and low-wage workers.
“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community.” – César Chávez
Chávez saw what many refused to see: that the people who feed and care for this country deserve to live with dignity. His movement was about humanity. That same struggle is alive today in Colorado and across the nation. Immigrants, refugees, farmworkers and low-wage workers are still being underpaid, overlooked and criminalized, especially those who are undocumented.
Health Equity and Worker Justice Go Hand in Hand
When workers are unsafe, underpaid or disrespected, their health suffers. So do their families. So do entire communities. That’s why, at The Colorado Health Foundation, we see economic opportunity as a core part of health equity. Economic stability and security are essential for health and well-being.
Today’s Movement: Community-Led and Rooted in Justice
Across Colorado, we see community-rooted efforts carrying forward César Chávez’s legacy in powerful ways. In rural regions, farmworker-led initiatives are standing up for those who grow and harvest our food, including those who are immigrants or undocumented, by working to secure safety protections, legal support and the dignity every worker deserves. These efforts are shaped by lived experience, led by the people most impacted and fueled by a commitment to justice.
In Colorado’s urban centers, there are groups organizing alongside day laborers, domestic workers and others in low-wage industries to secure safe working conditions, access to health care and protection from wage theft. These community-led strategies center worker voice and build long-term power in communities disproportionately impacted by poverty and racism. The Foundation has consistently invested in this movement because it reflects our belief that health equity cannot be achieved without economic, racial and labor justice.
We also continue to support advocacy efforts that equip grassroots leaders with the tools, networks and policy knowledge they need to drive lasting change. Whether rural or urban, these partners are shaping a future where every worker is safe, valued and heard.
Why Chávez Still Inspires Us Today
Honoring César Chávez reminds us that joy, determination and unity are tools of liberation. His work continues to show us that change doesn’t start with institutions—it starts with people. It starts when we say: “Ya basta.”
At this moment, Chávez’s example pushes us forward. He organized from a place of deep love for his people. And he didn’t wait for conditions to be perfect to act.
Let This Be Our Moment
We ask you to join us in honoring César Chávez not just in memory, but in movement. Listen to workers. Support organizing. Challenge injustice. And believe, like he did, that ordinary people, united in purpose, can do extraordinary things.