March 24, 2025

Ferris State to host César Chávez March in honor of farm labor and civil rights leader March 26

Ferris State University plans to honor the memory of farm labor activist and civil rights leader César Chávez while continuing his advocacy for safe and fair working conditions for migrant workers, said Sonia Trevino, director of the Ferris State Hispanic/Latino Cultural Center.

The HLCC team is collaborating with other campus groups to host a César Chávez March on Wednesday, March 26, beginning at 3 p.m. in the IRC Connector on Ferris State’s Big Rapids campus.

Trevino hopes the campus march will prompt significant takeaways for participating students, employees, and community members.

“I want them to feel empowered and have a sense of solidarity with their peers in a common connection in sharing similar values,” she said. “This feeling, in and of itself, will foster community and create a sense of belonging.”

Trevino said she hopes the event will increase awareness of import issues.

“In this case, César Chávez advocated for safe and fair working conditions for migrant workers,” she said. “This march can give students a deeper understanding of these social issues.”

Trevino said that the HLCC is partnering with associated campus student organizations, including the Hispanic Student Organization, to inspire a call to action, engage in grassroots advocacy efforts and help spread awareness of ongoing issues.

“This event can also inspire a greater sense of civic engagement in students and foster the importance of getting involved in social justice issues that inspire them,” said Trevino, who also noted that food will be provided at the event.