Dolores Huerta speaks out in first public interview since sexual assault allegations against Cesar Chavez surfaced

March 20, 2026

TL;DR

Dolores Huerta, a co-founder of a labor organization with Cesar Chavez, has spoken out about allegations of sexual abuse against him.
Huerta herself alleges she was raped by Chavez in the 1960s, leading to two pregnancies.
She kept these assaults secret for 60 years, believing that exposing the truth would harm the farmworker movement.
Huerta expressed regret for not confronting Chavez, fearing it might have prevented other women from experiencing abuse.
The Chavez family called the allegations "deeply painful" and wished peace and healing to survivors.
Huerta stated that despite Chavez's alleged actions, the movement's accomplishments for farmworkers should still be recognized.
She emphasized the importance of continued progress towards respect and equity for women in the community.

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