Summary
Celebrations and honors for labor leader César Chávez face changes after allegations that he sexually abused girls and young women have surfaced. States and groups are reconsidering events like César Chávez Day, and some are canceling them altogether. The allegations are causing a reassessment of Chávez's legacy within the farmworker movement.
Key Facts
- Allegations have emerged that César Chávez sexually abused women and girls.
- States are considering changing or canceling events named after Chávez.
- Over 130 places in at least 19 states are named after Chávez.
- California may rename César Chávez Day to Farmworkers Day.
- Washington state is not honoring Chávez this year, choosing instead to celebrate Dolores Huerta Day.
- Texas and Arizona announced they won't celebrate Chávez Day.
- Dolores Huerta, a co-founder with Chávez, kept the allegations secret to protect the union’s reputation.
- Chávez's family and the union acknowledge the farmworker movement includes many important contributors.
