Sexual abuse allegations against renowned labor rights activist, César Chávez, have prompted the reexamination of scheduled marches and celebrations. San Antonio’s 29th annual César E. Chávez March for Justice, scheduled for March 28, is now canceled. An investigation and a public statement from labor rights leader Dolores Huerta have been published.
Huerta co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, now the United Farm Workers of America, alongside Chávez in the 1960s. Huerta hid the alleged abuse that she endured while working with him for 60 years. In her statement, Huerta described two instances of sexual misconduct during the 1960s between herself and Chávez.
“The first time I was manipulated and pressured into having sex with him, and I didn’t feel I could say no because he was someone that I admired, my boss and the leader of the movement I had already devoted years of my life to,” Huerta explained in her statement. “The second time I was forced against my will and in an environment where I felt trapped.”
The investigation spanned dozens of interviews, union records, confidential emails and photographs, leading to a comprehensive report of abuse expanding beyond Huerta’s report. Chávez allegedly sexually abused two minors in the 1970s and fathered four children to three women outside of his marriage, two of which were born from Huerta and have DNA tests confirming their relation.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced that this year on March 18, the same day as the allegations were released, Texas will not observe César Chávez Day. Abbott also stated he will be directing all state agency heads to comply and will work to remove the holiday from state law.
“Reports of the horrific and widely acknowledged sexual assault allegations against César Chávez rightfully dismantle the myth of this progressive hero and undermine the narrative that elevated Chávez as a figure worthy of official state celebration,” Abbott’s press release asserted.
San Antonio officials responded as well; District 5 Councilmember Teri Castillo sent a memo to City Manager Erik Walsh requesting a series of “Community Listening Sessions” to change the name of W. César E Chávez Boulevard. These sessions would be an invitation for residents to share their thoughts and, ultimately, find “another name selected by the community.”
Castillo also requested that the sessions be “prioritized and scheduled within the Spring of this year,” given the severity of the allegations. The request suggests additional targeted surveying of residents and businesses located on the boulevard. Castillo explained her request, “This is about listening to our community and ensuring their voices guide decisions that shape our public spaces.”
Chávez’s birthday on March 31 will not be observed as a city holiday in San Antonio this year.; city offices will remain open . Good Friday, April 3, will fill in as the celebrated city holiday instead. The annual San Antonio March for Justice, dedicated to paying tribute to the life of Chávez, has been canceled this year.
While acknowledging the harm caused by the fallen idol, Huerta finished her sentiment by reminding the public of the movement’s accomplishments that should not be overshadowed.
“César’s actions do not diminish the permanent improvements achieved for farmworkers with the help of thousands of people,” Huerta urged. “We must continue to engage and support our community, which needs advocacy and activism now more than ever.”
