Dear Peralta Community,
I want to take a moment to acknowledge that many across our community are reflecting on the recent reports and allegations regarding Cesar Chavez. For some, this may feel especially heavy, given the deep connections to the farmworker movement and its legacy, and those impacted by sexual violence and abuse.
We are approaching this complex and evolving situation with care, and we must take the time to listen, reflect, and understand before determining next steps.
Along with the State, the District observes March 31 as the Cesar Chavez holiday. This year, March 31 falls during the District’s spring break and our campuses and offices will be closed on that day. For future years, we will work with our campus communities and labor partners to determine how the day will be marked going forward. The holiday is also included in our collective bargaining agreements, and we must work with our unions to implement the changes.
While we are determining our next steps, I encourage our community to hold space for reflection and to recognize the broader contributions of farmworker leaders and movements, as well as the history of the movement to end sexual violence.
Sincerely,
Tammeil
Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson
Chancellor
Peralta Community College District