TEXAS AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT TO SKIP CESAR CHAVEZ DAY OBSERVANCE

March 25, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced the Texas Department of Agriculture will not observe Cesar Chavez Day this year, citing agency operations and ongoing controversy surrounding Chavez’s legacy.

Miller said the agency will remain fully operational on March 31, emphasizing the need to support farmers and ranchers without interruption.

“Here in Texas, agriculture doesn’t take a day off, and neither do we,” Miller said, adding that the decision reflects the priorities of producers who work year-round.

The move follows similar action by Governor Greg Abbott, who has called for removing Cesar Chavez Day from official state observance. The decisions come amid renewed scrutiny of Chavez, a labor leader who co-founded the United Farm Workers and led national efforts to improve wages and working conditions for farm laborers through strikes and boycotts.

Miller also pointed to longstanding criticism from some in the agricultural community, arguing Chavez’s tactics placed strain on farmers and disrupted markets.

The announcement comes as Texas Republicans continue to shape policy direction following recent primary election results, where conservative priorities were strongly reinforced by voters across the state. Issues tied to cultural debates and historical recognition have remained a focus among GOP leadership heading into the next legislative session.

Supporters of the decision say it reflects a commitment to Texas agriculture and reevaluating historical figures, while critics argue it diminishes Chavez’s contributions to labor rights and Latino history.

The Texas Department of Agriculture said it will continue providing services statewide on March 31, including regulatory support, disaster response and promotion of Texas-grown products.