From Sfchronicle · · 50s
San Francisco Renames Cesar Chavez Street
San Francisco proposes Las Campesinas for Cesar Chavez Street after sexual abuse allegations against labor leader.
In brief
San Francisco proposes Las Campesinas for Cesar Chavez Street after sexual abuse allegations against labor leader. San Francisco may rename Cesar Chavez Street to Las Campesinas to honor farmworkers without referencing labor leader's alleged sexual abuse. Originally reported by Sfchronicle.
Street Renaming Proposal
San Francisco leaders chose Las Campesinas to rename Cesar Chavez Street after sexual abuse allegations against the labor leader.
“San Francisco leaders have picked what could become the new name for Cesar Chavez Street, one they believe will commemorate the farmworkers’ movement without the baggage of its leader’s alleged sexual predation”
Historical Context
The 3.2-mile street runs through the Mission District and could be renamed to honor farmworkers without referencing the labor leader’s alleged sexual abuse.
“Las Campesinas, "female farmworkers" in Spanish, enshrines that historical context while also recognizing "the severe allegations of sexual abuse and assault against young women and girls, whose representation is integral to the farmworker and labor movement"”
Community Reaction
Residents petitioned for transparency, with 157 signatories preferring Esperanza or Dahlia over the proposed names.
“As of Oct. 15 it had 157 signatories, 97% of whom said they would prefer calling the street Esperanza or Dahlia”
Implementation Plan
The city will update street signs, addresses, and postal services, costing $107,000 to rebrand the 3.2-mile street.
“City officials previously estimated that changing street signs and related markings would cost about $107,000, with the city also working with the U.S. Postal Service on address and mapping changes”
What matters most
San Francisco may rename Cesar Chavez Street to Las Campesinas to honor farmworkers without referencing labor leader's alleged sexual abuse.
