Labor and civil rights activist Cesar Chavez has been honored in a mural, created with donated materials, at Pleasant Valley State Prison.
The ongoing beautification project on Facility A also features other social activists and civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi.
The mural was painted by incarcerated artists Fernando Arellano and Delfino Muniz. They said they were inspired by activist Chavez’ nonviolent resistance to affect change.
The Mexican American labor and civil rights leader dedicated his life to improving conditions for farm workers.
His efforts were focused on towns like Delano and Coalinga in California’s Central Valley.
Spanning the exterior of the housing unit, the monochromatic mural was created using paints donated by family and outside sources.
“It will be a daily reminder that affecting change is possible in our own lives,” said Arellano and Munoz.
The mural project represents the spirit of the California Model, creating a more normal environment inside prison settings.
Did you know? Since 2014, Cesar Chavez Day has been observed as a federal holiday on March 31. It is also a state holiday in California.
Submitted by Lt. Jason Martin
Pleasant Valley State Prison
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