New York Times report leads to multiple cancellations of events meant to celebrate the late labor organizer
Lawmakers, union leaders and several community organizations expressed their dismay after allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior and abuse of young women or girls emerged against the late labor organizer César Chávez.
The New York Times released an investigation on Wednesday detailing the allegations, which revealed that for years the co-founder of the United Farm Workers union had groomed and sexually abused girls who were involved in the movement.
The report has led to multiple cancellations or rebranding of events that were meant to celebrate César Chávez Day, which is observed annually on 31 March, Chávez’s birthday. States including California, Arizona, Utah, Texas, Colorado, Oregon and Minnesota have recognized the holiday.
Before the Times released the report, media inquiries about the allegations prompted the UFW to cancel celebrations honoring Chávez, calling the allegations “disturbing”, “shocking” and “indefensible”.
