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How to participate in the 24th Annual César E. Chavez March set for March 14 in Grand Rapids

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Over 800 community members participated in the annual César E. Chávez social justice march on March 16, 2023 in Grand Rapids. Participants marched down César E. Chávez Avenue for the first time since it was renamed. (Blace Carpenter/The Collegiate)

By Koy Flores

The 24th Annual César E. Chavez Social Justice march will take place Thursday, March 14 with the staging beginning at 10 a.m., and the march beginning at 11 a.m. at Roosevelt Park, 739 Van Raalte Dr. SW, in Grand Rapids.

Marchers will head from Roosevelt Park to Potter’s House Chapel. The theme for the march is, “It’s Always About People,” and will commemorate Chavez’s contributions to social justice.

César E. Chavez was an organizer of migrant American farmworkers and a cofounder of the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA) in 1962.

Representatives from local schools and organizations are expected to participate.

Following the march, around 11:45 a.m., participants are invited to a Community Gathering, at the Potter’s House Chapel, at 810 Van Raalte Dr. SW. A luncheon will follow at approximately 1 p.m. for those who have confirmed an RSVP with Lupe Ramos-Montigny, Chairperson of the Committee to Honor César E. Chavez. The luncheon will take place at Maya Mexican Grill, at 1020 28th St SW, in Wyoming.

The event will feature student musical performances, video presentations by college and university representatives, and other community activities.

Political signs aren’t permitted during the event. Participants are allowed to bring flags, signs, school banners, and/or school logo attire. Commemorative t-shirts and buttons will be available for purchase on-site for $10 and $5 respectively.

“We invite the community to join us as we walk together down to Potter’s House Chapel to honor and celebrate César’s legacy. This year’s activities promise to be engaging and impactful,” said Ramos-Montigny.