Arizona leaders are speaking out following new allegations reported by the New York Times involving Cesar Chavez, the famed labor leader and civil rights icon. According to the investigation, Chavez has been accused of sexually abusing two girls in the 1970s, as well as Dolores Huerta, his co-founder in the United Farm Workers, in the 1960s.
Chavez, who was born near Yuma and died in San Luis, has long been regarded as a powerful symbol in farming and border communities across the region.
U.S. Rep. Adelita Grijalva, whose district includes south Yuma County, issued the following statement on Tuesday:
“I am deeply troubled by recent reports of allegations of sexual abuse, including incidents involving minors, brought against Cesar E. Chavez. To the survivors: estamos con ustedes – we are with you. We hear you, we believe you, and we admire the immense courage it takes to speak out.
I know that there is a profound sense of grief in our community today that may bring mixed emotions. The betrayal of trust by a leader who had such a significant impact on our community is difficult to comprehend. It is ok to feel angry, shocked, heartbroken, saddened, confused, and dismayed – all at the same time. We still have more questions than answers. However, it is important to remember that one person does not define a movement. We, the people, are the movement.
El movimiento has always been rooted in justice, and justice demands that survivors are supported and heard. I stand with them unequivocally.”
On Wednesday, U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego issued the following statement: “Today’s reports are shocking and disappointing about a leader that I for many years had looked up to, like so many Latinos growing up in the U.S.
“But as I have said many times this year—no one, no matter how powerful, is above accountability, especially when it comes to abusing young women.
“The farmworkers’ movement has always been bigger than any one man. It belongs to the thousands of hardworking people who have spent decades on the front lines fighting for the dignity of agricultural workers. We have to keep that fight going, especially now, when our community is under constant attack.
“I want to recognize the incredible bravery of the women who came forward to share their stories of abuse. It takes immense strength to speak truth to power, and we owe it to them to ensure that our movement is defined by accountability and justice for everyone.”
