In the wake of a New York Times investigation detailing allegations of sexual abuse by labor leader Cesar Chavez—including testimony from Dolores Huerta—a chorus of feminist leaders, organizers and advocates are rallying around Huerta, centering her story and the broader truths it reveals.
“She birthed children he forced into her womb. She convinced herself to endure it alone to free others. My God, this grief I howl.”
“She’s always been an icon, an inspiration, and a shero. Today, in her 90s she continues to lead by speaking out. Her voice probably ensured that others’ stories were told.”
“It feels both fitting and just that the holiday bearing his name be revised to Farmworkers Day—El Día del Campesino—and that every boulevard, park, and street honor Dolores Huerta instead.”
“We need to investigate why so many women who are the heartbeats of our movements are made to pay so dearly and are failed by the community so deeply.”