Gov. Newsom has appointed Luis Céspedes to serve as judicial appointments secretary in the governor’s cabinet. As a 15-year-old farmworker, Céspedes joined in strikes in the early days of the United Farm Workers union.
He was later a staffer in the Assembly and launched his own law firm.
“From going on strike alongside César Chávez (above) to selflessly lifting others to higher office, Luis has walked the walk,” said Attorney General Xavier Becerra in praising the appointment.
Newsom’s decision drew accolades from an icon in the farm labor movement, Dolores Huerta.
“I knew I could rely upon Luis’ help in my efforts to increase protections for farmworkers and their families, ensuring farmworkers’ right to vote for a union of their choice,” she said.
