CALIFORNIA (KMJ/KFSN)– The United Farm Workers Association has announced it will not be taking part in any César Chávez activities this year.
The organization said in a statement that they learned of “deeply troubling” allegations against Chávez that “do not align with their values.”
Organizers cited “sensitive information” regarding Chávez, with reports suggesting allegations of abuse involving young women and minors.
The group says it has not received any direct reports of the allegations.
Multiple schools in California are named after the civic leader.
In Fresno, a street was also renamed to César Chávez Boulevard in his honor in 2024.
The César Chávez Foundation also released a statement saying they are aware of the allegations. “We are deeply shocked and saddened by what we are hearing. The Foundation is working with leaders in the Farmworker Movement to be responsive to these allegations, support the people who may have been harmed by his actions, and ensure we are united and guided by our commitment to justice and community empowerment,” the statement said.
Canceling events, the UFW said, would “provide space for people who may have been victimized to find support and to share their stories if that is what they choose.”
Chávez founded the United Farm Workers of America and dedicated his life to improving the rights of farm workers until his death in 1993.
Fresno Unified sent out an emasil on Tuesday saying it will not participate in the Cesar Chavez celebration planned for Wednesday, March 18 at the Warnors Theatre.
“Due to recent allegations about Cesar Chavez, district officials have determined that students and staff will not be part of the program or the march afterward to the Cesar Chavez Adult Education Center.”
Listen to the report by KMJ’s Liz Kern.
