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In light of a New York Times investigation that detailed sexual abuse allegations against César Chávez, Santa Clara County leaders have decided to observe the upcoming March 31 holiday as a recognition of the broader farmworker rights movement rather than the late labor leader’s birthday.
In a joint statement, county Board of Supervisors President Otto Lee, Vice President Sylvia Arenas and County Executive James R. Williams described the allegations as “deeply disturbing,” noting that they’ve prompted “serious concern and reflection” across the community.
“We are committed to uplifting the dignity of all workers and celebrating the many contributions of our Latino/a and immigrant communities,” the statement said. “We also honor the courage of the survivors who are speaking out.”
In line with the decision made by county leaders, the city of Mountain View is also opting to observe the holiday this year in honor of the “legacy and contributions of farmworkers,” city spokesperson Lenka Wright told the Voice.
“Mountain View, like other government agencies, is figuring out the path forward as the state’s legislative leaders seek to rename the holiday,” Wright wrote in an email.
On Wednesday, the New York Times reported that multiple women accused Chávez of sexual misconduct, including two women who said he sexually abused them for years when they were girls. One of them, Ana Murguia, told the paper Chávez summoned her to his office for sexual encounters beginning when she was 13 and continuing “dozens of times over the next four years.” Dolores Huerta, who co-founded the United Farm Workers union with Chávez, also said in the Times report that he had sexually abused her.
Reaction to the allegations of sexual abuse by Chávez has been swift, with many cities, schools and states considering how to disentangle themselves from the civil rights figure. Celebrations honoring the union organizer have been canceled across the country. Latino activists who previously regarded him as a folk hero have come out to disavow him.
New Legislation
On Thursday, California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas and Senate Leader Monique Limón said in a joint statement that the farmworker movement “never has been about one individual.” They plan to put forward legislation to rename César Chávez Day to “Farmworkers Day.”
“This holiday will be a time for California to honor the past, reflect on the present and renew our collective dedication to equity and justice for farmworkers,” the statement read.
California leaders said they will also work with schools and local communities to address laws and statutes related to Chávez.
