Celebramos César Chavez

Librarians and teachers working with elementary students have several wonderful picture books available to celebrate César Chavez Day, which is celebrated as a state holiday in California, Colorado and Texas on March 31.  César Chavez was an important Latino leader who, along with his partner Dolores Huerta, helped migrant farm workers organize to demand decent working conditions.  This movement and Chavez are associated with the rallying cry, "¡Sí, se puede!"  "Yes, we can!"

Here are some ideas of books, activities and more that can be used in the classroom or in library programs.

César, a 2006 Pura Belpré honor recipient for both text and illustration, presents the life and work of César Chavez in brief, English-language poems.  Written by Carmen Bernier-Grand and illustrated by David Diaz.

A Picture Book of Cesar Chavez by David and Michael Adler and illustrated by Marie Olofsdotter presents a biography appropriate in length and depth for younger elementary students.

Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez (also available in Spanish) is an excellent biography, and a recipient of the 2004  Pura Belpré illustration honor.  Written by Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Yuyi Morales.

César Chavez: The Struggle of Justice / La lucha por la historia presents a biography of César in a bilingual format.

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers celebrates César's partner, who fought alongside him and was a fearless leader herself.

Perhaps my favorite, Side by Side: The Story of Dolores Huerta and César Chavez / Lado a lado: La historia de Dolores Huerta y César Chavez presents the story of each of these important leaders and their work together.

A biography of César Chavez followed by printables and other activities from Enchanted Learning.

Many resources, including booklists and video, for parents and teachers of migrant students from Colorín Colorado.

How will you celebrate the legacy of César Chavez?