A New York Times investigation has shaken the legacy of one of the most celebrated figures in Latino history, and Arizona, the state where César Chávez was born, is among the first to respond.
The investigation, based on interviews with more than 60 people, alleges that Chávez, the United Farm Workers co-founder, sexually abused multiple women and girls during the height of his civil rights career in the 1970s.
Two women, Ana Murguia and Debra Rojas, both now 66 and daughters of longtime movement organizers, allege that Chávez sexually abused them for years when they were children.
Murguia says the abuse began at age 13 and continued for four years, while Rojas says she was first inappropriately touched at 12 and raped at 15.
Both women stayed silent for decades, citing shame and a desire to protect Chávez's public image. However, for a state that has long honored Chávez with streets, schools, and parks named after him, the allegations have prompted swift, somber reactions.
Arizona Reactions
AzFamily reported that Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ) has directed for the state to not recognize the day dedicated to Chavez.
"The Governor's Office is deeply concerned by the troubling allegations against César Chávez," her office said in a statement. "As a social worker who worked with homeless youth and victims of domestic violence, Governor Hobbs takes allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior against women and minors very seriously."
Arizona is home to numerous tributes to Chávez, who was born in Yuma and grew up in a farmworking family before becoming a nationally recognized labor leader.
His birthday, March 31, has been observed as a commemorative day in several states since California first established it.
Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) also weighed in, expressing support for the victims while urging the public not to lose sight of the broader movement Chávez represented.
"I know that there is a profound sense of grief in our community today," she said, acknowledging that the news "may bring mixed emotions." She added, "It is ok to feel angry, shocked, heartbroken, saddened, confused, and dismayed — all at the same time... it is important to remember that one person does not define a movement."
Foundations Response
The Cesar Chavez Foundation said it was "deeply shocked and saddened" and announced that it is partnering with the UFW to create a confidential process for those who wish to come forward.
"We ask for our community’s patience as we learn more. Throughout this process, our organization and our partners in the movement will continue our work together to protect and uplift the families and communities that we serve," the statement continued.
