The color guard from Riverside’s Casa Blanca getting ready to hoist the colors.

Many members of LULAC Council 3190 were active participants in getting a statue of Cesar Chavez erected on the mall in downtown Riverside.  The project itself was directed by LANET(The Latino Action Network).  LANET a member of LULAC has several members in both organizations. The task wasn’t easy because the project alone required raising over $350,000, obtaining the permission of the city and choosing a design that members of the community would be proud to show the younger generations of the community, while sharing his valiant story.  The civil rights leader had a long and storied connection to  Riverside County, due to the county’s historical agricultural roots.  Since Riverside is the County Seat of government it seemed only appropriate that the statue find a home on the mall along with other notable statues.

As a result there were many activities associated with final placement of the much deserved honor for an American Civil Rights Hero. This sight will show the many happening that took place along the way.

THE GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY ON THE DOWNTOWN RIVERSIDE MALL

People awaiting the start of the groundbreaking ceremony.

Riverside’s New Mayor Rusty Bailey along with Councilman Chris Mac Arthur await the groundbreaking.

Ruben Gomez and his wife in anticipation of the ceremony. Ruben has been in charge of the public relations for LULAC’S Three Health Fairs and has done an extraordinary job.

Two LULAC members Maribel Nunez and Sala Ponnech conversing, while waiting the start of the festivities.

LULAC Council 3190 President and now California State Treasurer standing next to two original members of the Farmworkers Union

As darkness falls on a Riverside late fall night the groundbreaking for Cesar Chavez’s statue begins.