Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta and Jack Brigham were honored by commemorative plaques on Bakersfield College’s campus Feb. 9 for their lifetime achievements. Dolores Huerta was unable to attend the unveiling due to an accident resulting in a need for shoulder surgery. However, the executive director of the Dolores Huerta foundation, and also Huerta’s daughter, Camila Chavez, spoke.

During her speech, Chavez brought up the importance of political activism among the youth while recounting stories from her past involving the United Farm Workers and Cesar Chavez.

Also speaking was honoree Jack Brigham, the executive director of the Center for Kern Political Education.

“Obviously, Cesar has a holiday named after him, Dolores has a Girl Scout patch in her honor . . . I’m not someone like that. I’m from Bakersfield. I’m very proud of my time here at BC,” said Brigham.

Brigham said he became involved with civil rights in the ’60s. During his time with the Civil Rights Movement, he met Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta. Brigham said being honored by an educational institution is the favorite award he has received.

BC’s M.E.Ch.A and Maiz clubs organized the event.

BC M.E.Ch.A member Enrique Martinez said, “It was hard and hectic to put together, but everything went great.” The plaques were placed to help educate the community about the work of Chavez, Huerta and Brigham, said Martinez.

The plaques are placed between the Business and Humanities buildings located near three trees that were dedicated to the trio in 2008 by Maiz. The area between business and humanities is also dedicated to their legacy, according to Severo Ramirez of M.E.Ch.A

Chavez said, “I think it’s awesome because it’s homegrown history that we’re celebrating. Unfortunately, the work that they started is not over, and so hopefully it will inspire students to become involved and help carry the work on.”