I saw Chavez speak in 1969 in NYC with Peter Yarrow. I was very impressed by his quiet, unassuming manner, and the clarity of his message.

This Time cover is from 1969:

César Chávez Day is an official state holiday in the U.S. states of California, Colorado and Texas. The day is commemorated to promote service to the community in honor of César Chávez’s life and work. Many, but not all, state government offices, community colleges, and libraries are closed. Many public schools in the state are also closed. Texas also recognizes the day, and it is an optional holiday in Arizona and Colorado. Although it is not a federal holiday, the President proclaims March 31 as César Chávez Day in the United States, with Americans being urged to “observe this day with appropriate service, community, and educational programs to honor Cesar Chavez’s enduring legacy.”  –Wikipedia