Overview

• The designation makes Nov. 1 a statewide day honoring Fernando Valenzuela, aligning with his birthday.
• The measure was introduced by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva, who cited the community resonance of Fernandomanía.
• Valenzuela’s 1981 breakout featured a shutout debut and the rare Rookie of the Year and Cy Young double, helping drive record Dodgers attendance the following year.
• He died on Oct. 22, 2024 at age 63 of septic shock, and the Dodgers honored him in the 2024 World Series and through 2025 with a commemorative patch.
• California’s move follows recent tributes including the Dodgers retiring his No. 34 in 2023 and a Robert Vargas mural unveiled at Dodger Stadium in July 2025.