Our hearts are heavy as we offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Jaime Alanís, a farm worker who died from injuries sustained during a recent immigration raid at a California farm. These violent and cruel federal actions continue to terrorize communities across America, threatening lives and tearing families apart.
The United Farm Workers (UFW) confirmed that several farm workers were critically injured during the chaotic raids in Ventura County, California. Many individuals, including U.S. citizens, remain unaccounted for.
“When will our nation treat farm workers with the dignity and respect they deserve? We live in the midst of people who hate and fear us.” These words, spoken by Cesar Chavez more than 50 years ago, continue to ring painfully true amid today’s violence and the growing hate directed at immigrant communities.
What we’re witnessing is a human tragedy unfolding in real time, exactly the kind of harm we feared these raids would cause. These raids must stop immediately.
Last week, the Cesar Chavez Foundation (CCF) hosted its Winter 2025 Board of Directors meeting in Houston, Texas, marking a significant milestone as the second consecutive board meeting held in the state. The choice of location reflects CCF’s deepening commitment to expanding its impact in Texas and its vision for continued growth in the region.
Held at the historic Magnolia Hotel, the three-day event kicked off with a warm welcome from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and brought together CCF’s leadership, board members, and key stakeholders to reflect on the organization’s achievements, discuss upcoming priorities, and set a strong foundation for 2025.
A Year of Growth and Momentum
The meeting began with remarks from President and CEO Manuel Bernal, who praised the organization’s achievements over the past year, proving 2024 to be a pivotal year for CCF, enabling the expansion of programs serving diverse communities.
Alongside programmatic growth, the team underscored the importance of enhancing CCF’s communication strategies to spotlight the impactful stories of community transformation and the significant work being done on the ground.
Engaging Sessions and Thoughtful Conversations
On Thursday, a community reception titled “Connecting Communities in Texas” was held at the Felix Fraga Academic Center of Houston Community College. City of Houston Council Member Joaquin Martinez, Texas House Representative Christina Morales, and members of the Fraga and Reyes families were in attendance. Guests had the opportunity to engage with one another and celebrate the significance of partnerships in expanding the reach of the CCF.
Looking Ahead: Centennial Celebration and Leadership Transition
As the Winter 2025 Board of Directors meeting came to a close, everyone’s energy and dedication were evident. CCF is poised for another transformative year, driven by a strategic vision and the unwavering commitment of its team and supporters. We look forward to a successful year ahead as CCF continues its essential work of inspiring and transforming communities!
The Cesar Chavez Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Connie Perez-Andreesen and Ernest J. Martinez to our Board of Directors. We are thrilled to welcome them onboard, as they bring a wealth of experience and diverse backgrounds that will contribute to the Foundation’s mission of inspiring and transforming communities.
Connie Perez-Andreesen is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who began her career as a staff accountant, eventually becoming a partner at a regional firm in Kern County. Presently, she serves as the Chief Administrative Officer and National Vice President of the United Farm Workers, lending her expertise to the organization’s operations.
Ernest J. Martinez is a St. Mary’s University alumnus with a business degree and is an active César E. Chávez Legacy & Educational Foundation member in San Antonio, Texas. He has served in various capacities, including as a committee chair, fundraiser, and mobilizer of community event volunteers. Additionally, he is the owner of a Charles Schwab franchise.
The Cesar Chavez Foundation (CCF) Board of Directors announces President Paul Chavez’s retirement at year’s end. During more than 30 years with CCF, Paul Chavez has ensured the legacy and values of his father continue inspiring people to make a difference in their lives and communities. Under his leadership, CCF has grown and transformed into a successful collection of social enterprises supporting millions of Latinos and working families, inspiring and transforming communities from rural to urban areas throughout the Southwest and across the generations. We thank Paul for his unwavering determination, guidance, and his nearly 50 years of commitment to the movement.
The Board of Directors has named CCF’s Chief Operating Officer Manuel Bernal to succeed Paul Chavez as president. Manuel has spent nearly 35 years in community development and a quarter century in leadership roles crafting a vision for CCF. He first joined the foundation in 1999, and until 2011 was Executive Vice President for Housing and Economic Development. Then, he served on the Board of Directors until 2017. Most recently, as chief operating officer, overseeing CCF’s four core programs: affordable housing, education, communications, and legacy work. Manuel’s roots and passion for community development have provided a strong vision for CCF’s future.
We have full confidence in Manuel’s vision for CCF and wish him success in his new role. Following his retirement, Paul will continue to serve on CCF’s Board of Directors and will continue serving farm worker movement organizations as a member of their boards. We wish Paul a happy retirement and thank him for his service in expanding our impact inspiring and transforming communities. We stand ready to support Manuel as he guides the organization forward.
Sincerely,
Cesar Chavez Foundation Board of Directors
