California Declares October 25 as Larry Itliong Day
Governor Gavin Newsom honors the labor leader on the 113th anniversary of his birth.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Unions
California Governor Gavin Newsom has officially proclaimed October 25, 2026, as Larry Itliong Day. The formal act honors the Filipino labor leader on the 113th anniversary of his birth during Filipino American Heritage Month.
Why it matters
The proclamation recognizes Itliong's instrumental role in the labor movement, specifically his leadership in organizing farmworkers throughout the state. His efforts helped bridge historical labor divides by facilitating the merger of two major agricultural unions.
The proclamation marks the 113th anniversary of the labor icon's birth, cementing his legacy within the state's historical record. The status of permanent legislative enactment for this commemorative day remains subject to future state government action.
The players
Gavin Newsom
He is the Governor of California who signed the proclamation and affixed the Great Seal of the State of California to the document.
Larry Itliong
He was a Filipino labor leader who founded the Alaska Cannery Workers Union and played a critical role in the formation of the United Farm Workers of America.
The details
Larry Itliong, who was born in the Philippines, served in World War II before becoming a prominent labor organizer. He founded the Filipino Farm Labor Union in 1956 and later helped merge the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee with the National Farmworkers Association to form the United Farm Workers of America.
Timeline
Itliong encountered discrimination and injustice as a migrant worker throughout the 1930s.
The Asparagus Strike in Stockton was organized by Itliong in 1948.
Itliong founded the Filipino Farm Labor Union in 1956.
The historic strike against grape growers in Delano was organized by Itliong in 1965.
Governor Newsom officially proclaimed October 25, 2026, as Larry Itliong Day.
Political Context
This proclamation follows a pattern set by the historical formation of the United Farm Workers of America by formally recognizing the individual leadership that enabled that union's creation. Opposition to such executive proclamations often centers on debates regarding which historical figures merit official state-sanctioned recognition versus community-led commemoration.
The designation serves as a formal state recognition, impacting how public schools and government agencies honor Filipino American Heritage Month. It does not mandate specific closures or changes to tax brackets, but provides a platform for local community labor observances.
The takeaway
This official recognition highlights the long-standing contributions of migrant workers to the agricultural success of California. Residents can explore local historical archives or labor museums to better understand the grassroots movements that shaped modern workplace rights.
Further reading
Learn more about the history of Unions across the state.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Gold Rush Cam.
