Following is a statement from Hermosa Beach Mayor Mike Detoy regarding the César Chavez Day controversy and ongoing state-level renaming efforts:

“As a City, we recognize the deeply disturbing allegations surrounding César Chavez and the important conversations now taking place at the state level regarding renaming the holiday that was created in his honor.

March 31st remains an observed holiday in our City's employee calendar under California law, but a date on a calendar is not an endorsement. The accounts of survivors are both troubling and serious, and they must be treated with the utmost care and respect.

We stand with the survivors, who have bravely shared the accounts of their abuse, and we support the Legislature’s and Governor's efforts to rename this holiday to honor farmworkers. The City of Hermosa Beach will continue to monitor these developments and act accordingly as the state moves forward.”