people lined up with shovels in hand planting veggies

Veggielution empowers youth and adults from diverse backgrounds to create a sustainable food system in San Jose (Amie Frisch image).

By the Cesar E. Chavez Community Action Center

“True wealth is not measured in money or status or power. It is measured in the legacy we leave behind for those we love and those we inspire.” – Cesar Chavez

Join us for our first ever Cesar Chavez Day Celebration Saturday, March, 31, at Veggielution Community Farm, Prusch Farm Park, 647 South King Road, San Jose. Cesar Chavez was an incredible leader who actually grew up right in our neighborhood, having worked in the fields and orchards of the East Side. We are proud to honor Cesar’s legacy in this day of service, as he has inspired much of the work we do.

This will also be our chance to welcome the spring and get our first summer crops in the ground. Please share in what will be a beautiful and memorable community event. Games and activities for children ages 2 through 12 will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and a draft-horse plow demonstration is planned for 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sponsors include Chikomekoatl, Public Allies, and Movimiento de Acion, Inspirando Servicio (MAIZ).

9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Blessing and Ceremony

Members of local Mexica/Azteca danza groups will perform a blessing in honor of the spring. Join and help us welcome in the season.

10 a.m. – noon
Invocation and Farm Work
Elisa Marina Alvarado of  Teatro Vision will offer opening remarks, then join us in planting tomatoes, peppers and eggplants and other summer crops. We will also complete a variety of service projects on the farm.

Noon – 1 p.m.
Potluck Lunch

Rice, beans, hand-made tortillas and other foods will be prepared for all participants. This is a potluck, so feel free to bring an item to share.

1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Panel Discussion: Farming and Community

Dr. Ann Lopez (author of “The Farmworkers Journey”) and other panelists will talk about farmworkers rights, indigenous/traditional agriculture and the role of sustainable farming in the future of our community