Somerton’s mayor says the city will change the name of Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Cities in Arizona and California have been discussing removing the late farmworker rights leader’s name following allegations of abuse and rape against girls and fellow activist Dolores Huerta.
In Somerton, Cesar Chavez Avenue runs north to south on the western edge of town and passes along Somerton High School.
Mayor Gerardo Anaya told KAWC the council voted to change the name to Campesinos Avenue with the majority of councilmembers in favor.
Anaya said councilmembers Miguel Villalpando and Martha Gonzalez voted against that name change. Villalpando had suggested Avenue F as Cesar Chavez Avenue becomes Avenue F on the south side.
The vote means changing signage, city records and maps, coordinating with emergency services and notifying utility providers, postal services and government agencies.
Somerton councilmembers also voted to change the Cesar Chavez city holiday from his birthday on March 31 to a full day off on Christmas Eve.
San Luis city leaders are also discussing changing the name of a street and cultural center and what to do with a statue.
