The San Diego Community College District's Board of Trustees will Monday consider renaming its César E. Chávez Campus in Barrio Logan following sexual abuse allegations against the deceased labor leader.
The campus, along César E. Chávez Parkway, is one of several institutions, parks and public spaces in San Diego County being considered for renaming following a New York Times report that Chávez allegedly sexually assaulted female followers as young as 12 in the 1970s and raped United Farm Workers co-founder Dolores Huerta, now 95, in 1966.
"These reports are deeply concerning, and our thoughts are with everyone impacted," according to a San Diego Community College District statement when the story broke last month. "SDCCD is committed to providing a safe, respectful environment for all, and we do not tolerate sexual misconduct or abuse of any kind. As we assess current and new information, SDCCD will prioritize feedback from our community and upholding our values of safety, dignity and respect for all."
The 67,924-square-foot campus in Barrio Logan opened in 2015 and annually serves thousands of adult education students enrolled in SDCCD's College of Continuing Education. The facility provides free classes for vocational training, English as a Second Language, citizenship, business, and adult basic education, among other programs.
"For all of us engaged in advancing equity in education, labor advocacy, immigration justice, and basic needs security, your work matters now more than ever," said district Chancellor Gregory Smith. "We ask you to remain committed to it. Honor the movement by continuing it and by building it in a way that does not replicate the abuses of power that have caused so much harm."
Smith said it was premature to assume any renaming was imminent and that the district will engage with many community stakeholders before reaching a decision.
"With this meeting, we are creating space for our community to be heard," said Tina M. King, College of Continuing Education president. "We recognize the significance of this moment and are committed to a thoughtful, transparent process that reflects the voices and values of the community we serve."
(Photo: SDCC)