US civil rights leader Cesar Chavez accused of sexual abuse

March 19, 2026

Cesar Chavez, the renowned farm workers' rights advocate who died in 1993, faces serious sexual abuse allegations from three women, including his United Farm Workers union co-founder Dolores Huerta. A New York Times investigation published this week revealed that Huerta, now 95, says Chavez coerced her into sexual encounters in the 1960s that resulted in secret pregnancies, while two other women allege he abused them as girls during the 1970s. The revelations have sparked widespread condemnation from civil rights organizations and political leaders, prompting cancellations of Cesar Chavez Day celebrations scheduled for March 31st.

Who is affected

Dolores Huerta (95-year-old UFW co-founder)
Ana Murguia (66 years old)
Debra Rojas (66 years old)
The children resulting from Huerta's pregnancies who were raised by other families
The United Farm Workers union (UFW)
The Cesar Chavez Foundation
California farmworkers and the broader labor movement
Those planning to celebrate or participate in Cesar Chavez Day events

What action is being taken

Multiple Cesar Chavez Day events are being cancelled or renamed
The UFW is cancelling its participation in the celebrations
Republican assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo has filed legislation to change the holiday's name to Farmworker Day
The Cesar Chavez Foundation is working with Farmworker Movement leaders to respond to the allegations and support those who may have been harmed

Why it matters

This matters because it involves one of America's most celebrated civil rights leaders and challenges his legacy as a champion for farm workers' rights. The allegations demonstrate that sexual abuse and exploitation can occur even within movements dedicated to justice and equality. The case highlights the importance of accountability regardless of someone's historical stature or contributions, and underscores ongoing issues of power dynamics and abuse that continue to affect women. The response to these allegations will influence how society balances commemorating important social justice achievements while acknowledging serious personal misconduct by their leaders.

What's next

California Governor Gavin Newsom is open to renaming Cesar Chavez Day
Legislation to change the holiday's name to Farmworker Day is under consideration
The Cesar Chavez Foundation is working with Farmworker Movement leaders to respond to allegations and support victims

Read full article from source: BBC