Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley to Recognize March 31 as Worker Justice Day
MILWAUKEE – Today, County Executive David Crowley announced that Milwaukee County will recognize March 31, 2026, as “Worker Justice Day,” affirming the right to fair treatment, safe conditions, and equitable opportunities for every worker. County Executive Crowley’s announcement comes in light of recent revelations about the holiday’s former namesake, Cesar Chavez, that threatens the movement of workers and laborers across the nation.
“Worker Justice Day recognizes the ongoing efforts to ensure that workplaces uphold respect, humanity, and accountability in how people are treated,” said County Executive Crowley. “Here in Milwaukee County, March 31 will always stand as a powerful reminder of the movement for worker dignity, fairness, and justice that has shaped our nation. This observance invites us to reflect on the importance of ethical labor practices and honor the workers whose dedication supports our communities and way of life.”
“Milwaukee County has always stood with our brothers and sisters in labor. Our commitment in honoring the value of their work in all its forms is stronger than ever,” said Milwaukee County Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson-Bovell. “Today, we affirm the importance of treating every worker with fairness, appreciation, and dignity. I look forward to observing Worker Justice Day on March 31 to recognize the individuals who strengthen our communities, reflect on how we cultivate respectful workplaces, and celebrate the contributions that make collective progress possible.”
“The Labor Movement and the Farmworkers’ Movement should always be talked about with the workers at the forefront. Today, we set the tone moving forward by recognizing the collective action of people coming together for the betterment of all. Leaders help by lending their voice, but workers built this movement, and that is why we celebrate what we have, can, and will accomplish,” said Milwaukee County Board Supervisor Caroline Gómez-Tom.
“I am glad our County Executive is stepping up to rename March 31 in the name of workers. It is important that during this time of reckoning, we understand that it is workers that make things happen, and not just in labor but in every socioeconomic sector and structure that makes residents’ lives better. This will be a celebration of that,” said Milwaukee County Board Supervisor Juan Miguel Martinez.
On March 31, 2026, Milwaukee County-sanctioned holiday recognitions and proclamations will now read as “Worker Justice Day,” amplifying the message of accountability at every level and a shared understanding that leadership, influence, and impact must always be grounded in integrity and responsibility. In accordance with Milwaukee County Code of General Ordinances Section 17.17(3), an optional minor holiday will still be available to Milwaukee County employees on March 31, 2026, as well as in the years ahead.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
More about the Chavez fallout
- Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley to Recognize March 31 as Worker Justice Day - David Crowley - Mar 27th, 2026
- Key Milwaukee Leader Weighs In On Chavez Debate - Jeramey Jannene - Mar 23rd, 2026
- Should Cesar Chavez Drive Be Renamed? - Edgar Mendez and Jonathan Aguilar - Mar 23rd, 2026
- Milwaukee Reckoning With Cesar Chavez Allegations - Jeramey Jannene - Mar 19th, 2026
- Statement on Reports of Alleged Sexual Misconduct by the Late Cesar Chavez - JoCasta Zamarripa - Mar 18th, 2026
- Forward Latino Statement on Allegations of Misconduct Involving Cesar Chavez - Forward Latino - Mar 18th, 2026
Read more about Chavez fallout here












