A Message from the President

Thursday, March 26, 2026, 4:30pm

Dear Seawolves,

As California lawmakers move forward with renaming Tuesday, March 31, as Farmworkers Day, I want to take a moment to reflect on its significance for our campus and broader community. This day honors the labor, resilience, and enduring contributions of farmworkers.

We are deeply saddened by recent revelations of sexual violence against women and girls involving labor leader César Chávez. We stand with the survivors whose courage has brought these experiences to light, including Dolores Huerta, Esmeralda Lopez, Ana Murguía, and Debra Rojas.

We recognize that this news may be painful and complex for many in our community, particularly those who have experienced harm. You may be feeling grief, anger, confusion, or disappointment — these responses are valid. For some, this moment may also be deeply retraumatizing.

As a campus community, we remain committed to care, support, and healing. We encourage you to take care of yourselves and one another and to access the support resources listed below.

We will also be offering a facilitated community space for students, staff, and faculty:'

Restorative Circle: A Space for Reflection, Support, and Healing
Date: Monday, March 30, 2026 Time: Noon–1 p.m.
Location: The HUB, Schulz 1058A
Facilitators: Julie Vivas and Marcus Penn, OPHD Center for Restorative Practices

This space will be grounded in shared agreements of empathy and respect. You are welcome to participate in whatever way feels right for you — whether to speak, listen, or simply be in community.

In addition, we have begun conversations with muralist Johanna Poethig about reimagining aspects of the “Tiene la Lumbre Adentro / He Has the Fire Within: SSU César E. Chávez Memorial” mural. This effort may include a campus workshop this spring to explore ways to more fully honor the legacy of the United Farm Workers, including the contributions and experiences of women and other historically underrecognized members of the movement. Campus community members interested in participating are encouraged to contact [email protected].

Campus Support Resources