Nationwide Cesar Chavez Centennial Events Canceled Amid Explosive Sexual Abuse Allegations

Organizers across the United States have begun canceling events planned to honor labor leader Cesar Chavez after multiple sexual-abuse allegations surfaced. The accusations, some described in reporting as involving at least one sexual relationship with a minor, have prompted unions and foundations to pause celebrations while they seek more information and offer support to anyone who may have been harmed.

Background

Cesar Chavez (1927–1993) co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) in 1962 and has long been celebrated as a central figure in the American labor movement. He would have marked his 100th birthday next year, and several centennial events were planned before the recent reports prompted cancellations.

Organizational Responses

On Tuesday, the United Farm Workers released a statement saying the union would not participate in Cesar Chavez Day activities on March 31 while it looks into the allegations and provides space and support for potential victims. The UFW said some reports appear to be family matters, but that allegations involving young women or minors are ''particularly troubling.'' The statement also made clear the union had not received direct reports or firsthand knowledge but felt compelled to act given the seriousness of the claims.

"The UFW has learned of deeply troubling allegations that one of the union’s co-founders, Cesar Chavez, behaved in ways that are incompatible with our organization’s values... Allegations that very young women or girls may have been victimized are crushing."

Edgar J. Martinez, chairman of the Cesar E. Chavez Legacy & Educational Foundation, announced the cancellation of the foundation's annual march in San Antonio but did not provide additional details. Mark Day, a former priest who worked with the UFW in the 1970s, told the San Antonio Express-News that at least two women had previously raised complaints against Chavez that "never went anywhere."

Reporting And Next Steps

The San Antonio Express-News said a national news outlet is expected to publish further reporting in the coming weeks. Mediaite first published a version of this story. Organizations that have paused events say they are taking steps to learn more, to listen to survivors, and to provide support for anyone who comes forward.

Note: These are allegations regarding a historical figure. They have been described in recent reporting but have not been proven in a court of law. News organizations and the named groups have said they will investigate further.