United Farm Workers union cancels Cesar Chavez events over abuse allegations [View all]

Source: The Guardian

The United Farm Workers union has cancelled celebrations honoring Cesar Chavez, the organization’s co-founder, following “troubling allegations” that Chavez was involved in the abuse of young women or minors.

“We have not received any direct reports, and we do not have any firsthand knowledge of these allegations,” the UFW said in a statement on Tuesday. “However, the allegations are serious enough that we feel compelled to take urgent steps to learn more and provide space for people who may have been victimized to find support and to share their stories if that is what they choose.”

The union said it would not be participating in Cesar Chavez Day, which is observed annually on 31 March, his birthday.

Chavez, who was born in Yuma, Arizona, rose to prominence in the 1950s and 60s, after helping organize migrant farm workers in California’s central valley to secure better pay and safer housing and work conditions. He staged month-long fasts for the cause and helped organize a national boycott of California grapes.

Read more: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/mar/17/cesar-chavez-united-farm-workers-union