Sculptors of Cesar Chavez Statue to Lead Discussion for ‘Site of Memory’
By Whitney Frasier
San Marcos, CA— The sculptors of the Cesar Chavez statue at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM), T.J. Dixon and James Nelson, will lead a conversation about the experience of designing the statue and their roles as artists in this unique public memory project at the University Student Union (USU) Amphitheater on Tuesday, Dec. 8.
The statue of Cesar Chavez on campus was unveiled on March 31, 1997, exactly 70 years after his birthday. Attendees of the discussion can expect to learn about the processes and ingenuity it takes to create a campus environment that is inclusive, historically aware and inspiring.
“The statue is important because it honors the life and legacy of Cesar E. Chavez, a local and national symbol for social justice struggles,” said Ben Nienass, assistant professor of political science. “Following his death in April 1993, a large group of CSUSM students and faculty were passionate about honoring Chavez’s legacy in a meaningful way on our campus.”
The event is sponsored by the Political Science Department, History Department and the CSUSM Latin@ Center. Light refreshments will be served.
What: Remembering Cesar Chavez at CSUSM: A Conversation with T.J. Dixon and James Nelson
When: Tuesday, Dec. 8 from 12 to 1:30 p.m.
Where: University Student Union (USU) Amphitheater, 333 South Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos