Image – Cesar Chavez Foundation

We Are Winning: A Revolution of Mind + Heart

September 25, 2025, by CCF

This Hispanic Heritage Month, the Cesar Chavez Foundation is proud to launch We Are Winning: A Revolution of Mind + Heart – a storytelling campaign rooted in culture, community, and action. This campaign spotlights people-centered stories that remind us of our power, courage, compassion, and the everyday revolutionary acts that move our communities forward.

Celia Martínez, behind the scenes of her interview, holding a Chavez Legacy Award and her book of poetry.

At the heart of this campaign are voices like Celia Martínez, a Yale graduate, content creator, and published Mexican-American bilingual poet who has built a platform that amplifies voices too often overlooked. Her poetry illuminates our struggles, celebrates the beauty of our traditions, and honors the achievements we continue to reach – even in the face of adversity.

Celia began writing poetry as a form of self-expression, and when she started sharing her work online, she realized how deeply people resonated with her words. She committed to making her poetry public so that others could “hear their own experiences through poems.” In doing so, she has touched millions, resonating across generations and offering strength in difficult times.

Her journey is deeply rooted in the movement’s legacy. Her mother, aunts, and uncles marched with the United Farm Workers and brought supplies to those incarcerated for the cause, including Cesar Chavez himself in the 1970s. Inspired by this legacy of solidarity, Celia uses her voice not only for herself but for others who may not be able to speak in times of adversity.

At the Cesar Chavez Foundation, we embody the same spirit through our collection of social enterprises designed to support working families in their pursuit of a more just and equitable society. As Cesar Chavez envisioned, the transformation that began in the fields continues today, carried forward by the next generation in their fight for equity in education, housing, and beyond.

Celia continues to win by creating inclusive, representative spaces where others feel seen. Her journey shows that authenticity, courage, and storytelling can spark lasting change.

Celia’s story is just the beginning. Through We Are Winning: A Revolution of Mind + Heart, the Cesar Chavez Foundation will spotlight young leaders, educators, community members, and CCF staff whose voices carry this legacy forward. Together, we honor our roots and celebrate the revolution of mind and heart that continues today.

✨ Follow the campaign and share your story using #WeAreWinning. Together, we continue to win through love, culture, and action.

United in Community: The 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards

June 19, 2025, by CCF

Inspired by Cesar Chavez’s legacy, the annual 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards united leaders from across the country at BMO Stadium for a powerful evening of unity and recognition. Individuals from business, labor, government, and education celebrated those advancing Cesar’s mission of empowering communities and championing justice for all.

This year’s remarkable honorees included Dr. George L. Pla, Patty Rodriguez, and Jimmy Humilde, who have each made a distinct and lasting impact on the community.

The Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards at BMO Stadium on May 29, 2025. Featured Custom Car – Humilde Car Club.

Dr. George L. Pla was honored for his lifetime of public service, entrepreneurship, and civic leadership. In 2023, he received a Presidential Medallion and an Honorary Doctorate Degree from California State University, Los Angeles. He is also an accomplished author, the founder and CEO of Cordoba Corporation, and a member of the Board of Trustees for the California Science Center. Reflecting on Cesar’s legacy during the ceremony, he reminded the audience: “the question we face isn’t whether [Cesar’s] values matter today. It’s whether we have the courage to live up to them.”

Patty Rodriguez, co-founder of Lil’ Libros, is a nationally recognized media producer and entrepreneur. Through her children’s publishing work, she celebrates cultural diversity and bilingual literacy and creates a space for young readers to see themselves reflected in stories.

Paul Chavez, CCF Board Chair, with 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Award honorees Patty Rodriguez, Jimmy Humilde, and Dr. George Pla at BMO Stadium.

Jimmy Humilde, co-founder and CEO of Rancho Humilde, helped redefine Latin music by promoting urban Mexican genres. His label has accumulated over 55 billion streams and nearly 10 billion views on YouTube. In 2024, he was named one of the Los Angeles Times’ L.A. Influentials for his cultural contributions. During his CCLA acceptance speech, Jimmy shared, “I didn’t have an entrepreneur I could look up to, being Chicano. We didn’t have that kind of businessman. We didn’t get to see it until later in life. I said, ‘I want to be one of those guys that young Chicanos look up to.’ Gracias a Dios, I am one of those guys.” Jimmy continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations.

This year’s keynote address was delivered by Elsa Marie Collins, a proud first-generation Latina and social impact strategist and consultant known for her leadership and dedication to equity. As a co-founder of Poderistas and This is About Humanity, Collins uses her platform to amplify voices and foster meaningful change.

We were thrilled to have Annie Gonzalez as this year’s host. A talented producer, actress, and singer from East Los Angeles, she advocates for Latino representation in media. She produced and starred in the Jenni biopic, portraying Jenni Rivera.

Attendees enjoying local food favorites from the Taste of Avenida Cesar Chavez at the Legacy Awards at BMO Stadium.

Throughout the night, guests enjoyed the second annual Taste of Avenida Cesar Chavez, celebrating the rich culinary landscape along Cesar Chavez Avenue. Featured restaurants included Antojitos La Chispita, Churros El Bochito, Brooklyn Ave Pizza Company, La Blanquita, Los Cinco Puntos, La Princessita, and Sammy’s Elotes y Mas. Attendees enjoyed a variety of Los Angeles favorites, such as street dogs and freshly made churros, including an immersive display of beautifully crafted Lowriders, presented by Jimmy Humilde. The evening ended on a high note with a live performance by Boogaloo Assassins.

Notable attendees included Bricia Lopez, a culinary entrepreneur and restaurateur; Narsiso Martinez, a celebrated visual artist known for honoring farmworkers; and Erik Daniel Garcia, a dedicated social activist and content creator. Each guest received a copy of De Colores, a Lil’ Libros publication co-founded by Patty Rodriguez.

The Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards honor individuals dedicated to empowering their communities, showcasing the resilience and determination that embody Cesar’s vision. Their inspiring stories remind us that unity in the pursuit of equity and justice drives lasting change. We thank all our sponsors, particularly our presenting sponsors, Boston Financial and California Resources Corporation, for making this night a success.

Check out our video highlighting the night’s events!

Connecting Communities in Texas

January 24, 2025, by CCF

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!

Remembering Ralph Magaña: A Life Dedicated to Justice and Community in the Farm Worker Movement

January 6, 2025, by CCF

It is with genuine sadness that we lost another unsung hero of the farm worker movement when Ralph Magaña, 78, passed away on Christmas Eve after a long battle with dementia. The husband of original union member and grape striker Maria Saludado Magaña, Ralph dedicated much of his life to the United Farm Workers and Cesar Chavez Foundation and lived for years at movement headquarters at La Paz in Keene, Calif.

Ralph—known among family as Rafa or Rafael—was born in 1946 in San Diego with a hole in his heart, then viewed as a death sentence. His parents were told not to let him run, play or even dance. His only physical activity was swimming, which proved a lifelong respite. Keeping indoors encouraged Ralph to read, listen to music, watch movies and study history. This undoubtedly contributed to his humble, reserved and soft-spoken nature. But it masked someone who was dynamic, loving, a smart aleck and a serious man. He underwent risky heart surgery and was administered last rites. Yet he survived.

His dedicated activism with the Chicano movement began at San Diego State University, although Ralph’s clean-cut style and bookish personality led some to think he was with the FBI. In fact, he hailed from a pro-union working-class family and committed his life to serving others.

Ralph Magaña (left) during the 2002 March for the Governor’s Signature from Delano to Sacramento. It helped pass a UFW-sponsored law strengthening farm worker rights to negotiate union contract.

Even before officially joining the UFW, Ralph carried the union’s black-eagle banner down the streets of San Diego during an anti-Vietnam War protest in 1970. He attended the historic National Chicano Moratorium march against the war on August 29, 1970 in East Los Angeles, when pioneering journalist Ruben Salazar was assassinated by the police.

Ralph traveled to La Paz in his Mustang to volunteer in 1972 before being hired by Maria Saludado to help administer the Robert F. Kennedy Medical Plan, the union’s health plan for farm workers protected by union contracts. He and Maria dated, got married and had three sons, Emilio, Alejandro and Julio. The Magañas left the union in 1980 but returned in the late 1990s when Maria was recruited to help the UFW organize Central Coast strawberry workers. Ralph and Maria later returned to live and labor with the Cesar Chavez Foundation at La Paz before retiring in 2013 and moving to Bakersfield.

Even in retirement Ralph and Maria consistently served their community, feeding their unhoused neighbors. Ralph leaves behind his wife Maria Saludado Magaña; his sons Alejandro and Julio (Emilio tragically passed away in 2022); his daughters-in-law Yvette, Rachyel and Jazmin; and his grandsons Dominic, Benicio, Kan’Ek and Tlaloc.

Ralph Magaña will long be a reminder that we are not defined by what we say, but by what we do.

A Rosary is set at 9 a.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025 with a Memorial Mass to follow at 9:30 a.m. at St. Phillip the Apostle Catholic Church, 7100 Stockdale Hwy., Bakersfield, Calif. 93309.

Empowering Voices: Q&A with Andres Chavez on the Inaugural Chavez Huerta Leadership Conference

October 28, 2024, by CCF

The National Chavez Center, in partnership with California State University Bakersfield and the Dolores Huerta Foundation, hosted the inaugural Chavez Huerta Leadership Conference at CSUB and La Paz on October 3 and 4. The two-day conference, themed “Latinos in Politics: Our Vote, Our Voice, Our Impact” for 2024, featured renowned speakers such as Dolores Huerta and CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia. The event included panel discussions and scholarly explorations covering such issues as Latinas in public life and the impact of Proposition 187.

We spoke with Andres Chavez, Executive Director of the National Chavez Center and steering committee member of the Chavez Huerta Leadership Conference. He shared insights on Cesar Chavez’s legacy, Villa La Paz, and the Center’s role in inspiring future leaders, as well as the conference speakers and program.

1. How does the partnership between California State University Bakersfield and the National Chavez Center contribute to sustaining and expanding the legacy of Cesar Chavez in Kern County and beyond?

If you boil down the work of both CSUB and the National Chavez Center to their core, you’ll see we have parallel missions. At the end of the day, we are both working to inspire and develop the next generation of leaders. To partner with CSUB on the inaugural Chavez Huerta Leadership Conference was extremely fitting.

Conference attendees visit Cesar Chavez’s burial site at the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument with Cesar’s son and Chavez Foundation Chairman of the Board Paul Chavez.

Fitting not only because CSUB’s main campus is miles from where so many important historic events took place, but also because the students who attend the university share similar backgrounds to Cesar. Much of Cesar’s legacy is defined by his ability to get ordinary people to do extraordinary things and to believe in themselves. And though, he may no longer be around to do this directly, we can take comfort in knowing that we continue his work by developing the next generation of change makers and do good-ers through this conference.

The conference was met with warm reception and many of the folks involved saw the opportunity for it to scale into a statewide and national conference.

2. What specific values or lessons from Cesar Chavez’s life are most important for today’s young leaders to understand and carry forward, especially regarding service and community impact?

Cesar taught us many important lessons. But I believe the most important lessons and values for young leaders to know is importance of service, unity and the Si Se Puede attitude.

Conference attendees tour the Cesar E Chavez National Monument’s visitor center with National Chavez Center Executive Director Andres.

My Tata Cesar once said, “it is my deepest belief that only by giving lives do we find life.” At the very heart of this statement is the value of service. What I share with young people, especially college students, is that service can take place in so many different ways. Cesar was of service by being an organizer and activist. But we know that’s not the only way to be of service to your community. You can do it through medicine, law, education, art… the list goes on and on.

Additionally, what gave Cesar and the movement power was their ability to work with folks from all backgrounds. The movement was spurred by Filipinos and Latinos coming together and flourished by engaging people from all backgrounds, races, and corners of this country.

I end with the Si Se Puede attitude because this value was the heart and spirit of the movement and what made Cesar who he is. What most people don’t realize is that Cesar and the movement had more defeats than they had victories. But it was how they responded to those defeats that defined their legacy. They simply never gave up. If we can embody the same attitude and spirit, there is no stopping what we can do.

3. Cesar Chavez envisioned a future where farmworkers and marginalized communities had strong leaders advocating for their rights. How do you see the Chavez Huerta Leadership Conference’s role in realizing that vision?

This year’s conference focused on the importance of civic engagement. The conference thoughtfully weaved together diverse subjects, histories, and voices to show the many ways students can be involved in the civic affairs of their community. It showed that everybody has a role to play and the ability to create change

The Chavez and Huerta Leadership Conference cohort enjoys lunch at the historic Villa La Paz at the National Chavez Center.

I’ll also add that we literally saw students transform overnight. On day one of the conference, we had some challenges getting students to engage with and ask the speakers and panelists questions. When we arrived at the National Chavez Center on day two, the students and participants were full of questions and not afraid to make their voices heard. It was truly remarkable. The best part is that we are just getting started.

4. Looking ahead, what are some key areas where you hope to see growth and increased engagement from Latino leaders in civic spaces, and how can the National Chavez Center support that mission?

This question makes me think back to what my Tata Cesar once said: “If you want to remember me, organize!”

There are many important issues and areas to work on. The only advice I’d give is to get involved. Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty. And always remember the words Si Se Puede.

Images