An Oregon-based farmworker union is speaking out after serious sexual abuse allegations surfaced against civil rights icon César Chávez.
The union, Pineros y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste (PCUN), issued a statement condemning what it described as “harmful actions” by Chávez, following a recent investigation detailing claims from multiple women.
According to the report, several women alleged that Chávez sexually abused them during the 1970s while leading the United Farm Workers movement.
“These are profoundly shocking findings,” said PCUN Executive Director Reyna Lopez. “No leader is above accountability. We stand with the survivors.”
Union Distances Itself from Chávez Legacy
PCUN emphasized that Chávez’s alleged actions contradict the core values of the organization, which was founded to protect farmworkers and marginalized communities.
“Our labor union was founded to end the exploitation of farm workers, immigrants and Latinx community members,” the statement read. “Chavez’s actions are against everything we stand for.”
The union also announced it will no longer celebrate César Chávez Day, marking a significant shift from past years when it hosted events and activities honoring the labor leader.
Calls Grow to Rename Streets and Schools
The fallout from the allegations is spreading across Oregon and beyond.
Leaders in Portland are now considering renaming a major street currently named after Chávez, with some suggesting it be renamed in honor of Dolores Huerta, a longtime labor activist who also accused Chávez of abuse.
Additionally, three Oregon school districts with buildings named after Chávez say they are reviewing the situation, though officials note that renaming schools is a lengthy process.
Ongoing Debate Over Chávez’s Legacy
The allegations have sparked a broader debate over Chávez’s legacy as a civil rights leader. While he is widely recognized for advancing labor rights and organizing farmworkers, critics say the new claims demand accountability and reassessment of public honors.
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