October 15, 2004

DEDICATION OF THE LARGEST MEMORIAL IN THE NATION
HONORING CESAR E. CHAVEZ

The City of San Fernando will hold the dedication of the César E. Chávez Memorial on Friday, October 22, 2004, at 6:00 pm at the corner of Wolfskill Street and Truman Street in the City of San Fernando. The Memorial is the largest and most intricate monument in the Nation that honors the great civil rights and labor leader, César E. Chávez. The Memorial consists of a fountain, a bronze sculpture of Chávez, a sculpture of ten farm workers, and a 100 foot mural, placed in a 23,000 square foot park-like setting that together educates and provides an opportunity for reflection on the significance of Chávez's life. The site also includes a donors circle with engraved bricks and plaques from the many groups and individuals who have supported the construction of the Memorial. The Memorial was designed by Ignacio Gomez, a local community artist.

The evening dedication event will include live music, food, invited dignitaries, elected officials and community members who have led the efforts to bring the Memorial to fruition. Individuals and entities responsible for the Project’s creation and implementation will be recognized. The brother of César E. Chávez, Paul Chávez, will provide the keynote address with other members of the Chávez family in attendance. The event will conclude with the unveiling and first ever public showing of the Memorial.

Major funding for the Memorial was provided by the City of San Fernando and METRO. A grassroots fundraising effort led by the Friends of the César E. Chávez Memorial provided over $100,000 for the Memorial through contributions from businesses, organizations and individuals.

Further Information:
Ron Ruiz, Assistant to the City Administrator
818-898-1201 or
Dan LaBrado (818) 898-1289