United Farm Workers Union Pauses César Chávez Day Celebrations Amid Allegations

The United Farm Workers (UFW) will not participate in any César Chávez Day activities this year amid “troubling allegations” against the iconic labor leader and co-founder of the organization. The decision comes as several events honoring Chávez across the country have been canceled in recent weeks, including planned events in Tucson, Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and San Bernardino.

Union Statement and Concerns

In a statement released Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the UFW acknowledged the allegations but did not provide specific details. The union expressed that the accusations were serious enough to warrant a pause in celebrations. “The claims against Chavez are incompatible with our organization’s values,” the UFW stated. “Some of the reports are family issues, and not our story to advise or our place to comment on. Far more troubling are allegations involving abuse of young women or minors. Allegations that very young women or girls may have been victimized are crushing.”

The UFW emphasized that it has not received any direct reports or firsthand knowledge of the allegations but believes canceling events will “provide space for people who may have been victimized to find support and to share their stories if that is what they choose.”

César Chávez’s Legacy

César Chávez, born March 31, 1927, is a pivotal figure in American labor history, credited with organizing and improving the lives of migrant farmworkers in California, and beyond. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA) in 1962, which later merged with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee (AWOC) to form the United Farm Workers in 1966 [1].

Chávez rose to national prominence in the mid-1960s, galvanizing public support for farmworkers through strikes, boycotts, and his commitment to nonviolent resistance. The 1965 Delano grape strike, initiated by Filipino and Mexican-American farmworkers, was a key moment in the movement. Chávez’s 25-day fast in 1968, ended with a shared breaking of bread with then-presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, drew international attention to the plight of farmworkers [1].

By 1970, the UFW had secured contracts for over 10,000 grape pickers. The UFW flag—a black Aztec eagle on a red background—became a symbol of the Chicano movement.

Recent Developments and Foundation Response

The recent wave of cancellations began last week when Dolores Huerta withdrew from a Corpus Christi march, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Huerta’s spokesperson, Eric Olvera, stated she is not commenting on the issue.

The César Chávez Foundation also released a statement acknowledging the “disturbing allegations” of inappropriate sexual behavior during Chávez’s time as president of the UFW. The Foundation announced it is working with leaders in the farmworker movement to establish a safe and confidential process for those wishing to share their experiences and participate in efforts toward repair and reconciliation. They are also investing in resources to promote a safe and welcoming workplace culture.

La Unión del Pueblo Entero, a community-based union founded by Huerta and Chávez, removed references to the leaders from its website in the 48 hours prior to the UFW and Foundation statements.

César Chávez Day

César Chávez Day is observed on March 31st, Chávez’s birthday, in California since 2000. Many city halls and schools close in observance, and community groups often leverage the day for organizing, rallies, and clean-up efforts Tucson Sentinel.