ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Two organizations closely associated with Cesar Chavez are taking action after learning about ‘deeply troubling’ allegations about him.

The Cesar Chavez Foundation stated Tuesday they are ‘deeply shocked and saddened’ after hearing about allegations that Chavez “engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors” while he was president of the United Farm Workers of America.

The UFW stated they will not be taking part in any Cesar Chavez Day activities this year on March 31.

“Instead, we call on our allies and supporters to take part in immigration justice events and acts of service to support farmworkers or empower vulnerable people in their own communities,” UFW continued.

UFW stated they haven’t received direct reports and don’t have any firsthand knowledge of the allegations. However, they believed the allegations are serious enough to take “urgent steps” to learn more and give space for victims to find support and share their stories, if they wish.

UFW and the Cesar Chavez Foundation are partnering to establish “a safe and confidential process” for anyone who wants to share their experiences of harm and to work toward repair and reconciliation.

New Mexico has several place names in Chavez’s namesake. In Albuquerque, there is Avenida Cesar Chavez, Cesar Chavez Community Center and Cesar Chavez Community School. In Santa Fe, there is Cesar Chavez Elementary School.

A celebration takes place each year in honor of Chavez and fellow labor leader Dolores Huerta in Albuquerque. In 2024, the National Hispanic Cultural Center and Recuerda a Cesar Chavez Committee organized the event.

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