State Holiday on Chavez Birthday Gets Backing
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LOS ANGELES — The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday backed an effort by state Sen. Richard Polanco (D-Los Angeles) to declare the birthday of the late labor leader Cesar Chavez a state holiday.
“Let us bestow respect upon Cesar Chavez, a glowing role model of how one person can ameliorate any unjust situation using peace and democracy,” said Supervisor Gloria Molina, who introduced the motion to support Polanco’s legislation.
Polanco’s bill stalled in Sacramento this summer because of concerns over the cost of granting state employees a day off each March 31.
Chavez’s granddaughter, Christine Chavez Delgado, thanked the supervisors. “This would mean a lot to our family,” she said.
The vote was 4 to 1 in support, with Supervisor Mike Antonovich in opposition. Antonovich said the holiday would cost taxpayers $32 million in lost work and overtime and that the state can honor notable people without granting days off.
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