In the United States Capitol Building, each state is allowed to send two statues to commemorate significant figures from that state. California is currently represented by President Ronald Reagan and Father Junipero Serra. It is of utmost importance that California replaces the statue of Father Junipero Serra in the United States Capitol Building with one of Cesar Chavez.
Junipero Serra is undeniably a significant historical figure due to his role in the establishment of the California missions. The missions are an integral part of California’s history and signify a period of transition in the state. However, Serra’s legacy is fraught with controversy. Serra’s poor treatment of the Native Americans included abuse, forced labor and mandatory conversion to Catholicism.
His actions have left a lasting negative impact on Native American communities. The Serra statue represents brutality and the denial of rights to people of color. As our understanding of history evolves, it is crucial that the people we choose to honor reflect a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of our past. As of this year, 40% of Californians are Latino — the largest ethnic group in the state. California is projected to continue growing in diversity, and by 2040, will be 73% people of color.
In keeping with this change, Cesar Chavez represents the ideals of social justice, equality and nonviolent activism. As a co-founder of the United Farm Workers (UFW), Chavez dedicated his life to improving the working conditions and rights of farm laborers, many of whom were marginalized and exploited. His leadership and advocacy brought about significant changes in labor laws and inspired countless individuals to continue the fight for civil rights and justice. Chavez’s legacy is one of empowerment, resonating strongly with the diverse population of California.
Eighteen statues in the Capitol have been replaced since 2000, when Congress amended a law to allow replacements. In 2019, Nebraska replaced its statue of William Jennings Bryan with Standing Bear, a Native American civil rights leader. Just last month, Arkansas replaced statues of Confederate sympathizer Uriah M. Rose with civil rights activist Daisy Bates and segregationist James Clarke with singer-songwriter Johnny Cash. California, one of the most diverse states in the nation, must continue the trend of promoting inclusivity through statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection. A statue of Cesar Chavez would honor values that all Americans hold dear: dignity, respect, fair wages and humane living conditions.
Replacing the statue of Junipero Serra with one of Cesar Chavez would not only correct a historical oversight but also send a powerful message about the values we prioritize as a state. It would honor the contributions of Latino and agricultural communities that have been instrumental in shaping California’s identity.
Furthermore, it would acknowledge the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights and civil rights, aligning with our commitment to social progress and justice. California must continue to lead by example in honoring the true heroes of our past and present by replacing the statue of Junipero Serra with one of Cesar Chavez in the National Statuary Hall.
Sydney is a junior at The Bishop’s School and lives in Carmel Valley.