The Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools is hosting the annual Cesar Chavez essay contest. Beginning in January, we welcome students to compose essays to honor the life and vision of Cesar Chavez. Our event culminates around the time of Cesar Chavez Day when the top student entries will be honored for their hard work.
For more information, please explore the resources below and reach out to Brandi Fleming at bfleming@fcoe.org.
2026 Theme Overview
“Si se puede!”
The Courage to Rise
Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) exemplified extraordinary courage in the face of overwhelming obstacles. Born into a migrant farm working family and facing discrimination, poverty, and limited formal education, Chavez could have accepted the status quo. Instead, he chose to rise up—not through violence, but through peaceful persistence, strategic organizing, and unwavering commitment to justice. His courage wasn't reckless; it was calculated and rooted in deep moral conviction. Chavez faced physical threats, arrests, and intense opposition from powerful agricultural interests, yet he never wavered in his nonviolent approach.
Chavez's legacy reminds us that courage isn't the absence of fear—it's the choice to act despite it. His journey from farm worker to transformative leader demonstrates that anyone, regardless of their background, can make a profound difference when they have the courage to stand up for what is right.
Reference:
Cesar Chavez Foundation, chavezfoundation.org