Milwaukee community celebrates César Chávez Day virtually this year

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Today is civil rights and labor movement activist, César Chávez's birthday.

On his birthday, Wednesday, March 31, people around the world honored and celebrated his legacy. 

One celebration took place in Milwaukee. The third annual celebration took place at the Marcus Performing Arts Center in a virtual format. The celebration managed to feature talent from across the area, perfectly fitting with this year's theme of community.

Chávez is a staple in the Hispanic community. Through his work, he was able to raise pay and improve working conditions for farmworkers. 

Community leaders chose to honor him and his work on Wednesday, focusing on one of his core values of cultural diversity.

The event brought in local artists, dancers and traditional mariachi musicians.

One of the highlights of this year's event was the impressive display of youth talent in the Milwaukee community. Many young people from schools throughout the area participated in art, essay and spoken word contests.

"Together we can make a change," Bryan Zarate said. Zarate was the first place winner for the elementary Spoken Word contest. "Together we can be better than ever, like César Chávez believed, together 'Si Se Puede."

CBS 58 and Telemundo Wisconsin were proud sponsors of Wednesday's event and together were able to provide prizes to some of today's lucky event winners. 

With the event going virtual this year, organizers say they were able to expand their reach and impact.

They hope to welcome everyone back to Marcus Performing Arts Center next year.