March 18 (UPI) -- Several organizations have canceled celebrations to mark this month's Cesar Chavez Day after allegations surfaced that the commemorative holiday's namesake may have engaged in sexually inappropriate behavior with both adults and children.
Few specifics are publicly known about the allegations, which the Cesar Chavez Foundation described in a statement as "disturbing." The United Farm Workers of America union also said in a statement that it had learned of the "deeply troubling allegations" against Chavez, one of its founders, though it does not have "firsthand knowledge" of any of them.
The CCF said the allegations that Chavez "engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors" stem from Chavez's time as president of the United Farm Workers of America, a position he held until his death in April 1993.
"We are deeply shocked and saddened by what we are hearing," the foundation said, adding that it was working with leaders of the farmworker movement to respond to the allegations and support those who may have been victimized.
With the UFW, the CCF said it was establishing "a safe and confidential process" for victims to share experiences of abuse and voluntarily participate in reparation and reconciliation efforts, while also working to promote and strengthen a safe and welcoming workplace culture.
