Civil rights icon Dolores Huerta passed away on Wednesday at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy as a tireless advocate for the rights of peasants and the working class.
Family representatives have confirmed that Huerta passed away at his residence in Bakersfield, California, due to complications from cancer.
Dolores Huerta, a prominent labor leader, was born on April 10, 1930, in Dawson, New Mexico, as Dolores Clara Fernández. She is credited with coining the motivational phrase "Yes, you can!" as the founder of the United Farm Workers (UFW).
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed her condolences, stating that the city has lost a revered figure in Dolores Huerta, an exceptional woman and courageous leader who dedicated her life to advocating for civil rights and advancing the labor movement over several decades.
Dolores was a source of inspiration for many in their activism efforts. Bass held Dolores in high esteem from a young age and cherished the opportunity to not only know her but also to consider her a close friend. Dolores provided Bass with motivation during challenging times and instilled in them a determination to persevere. Throughout Bass's various campaigns and endeavors, Dolores offered unwavering support.
Juan Fernández, Huerta's father, a multifaceted individual who worked as a miner, farmer, and trade union leader, as well as a state lawmaker in New Mexico, instilled in his son a strong sense of social activism. Similarly, Alicia Chávez, Huerta's mother, who owned a restaurant and hotel in Stockton, played a significant role in shaping her son's commitment to advocating for the rights of the most vulnerable members of society.
Noted labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta's character is exemplified by her humility, modesty, and courage, qualities that serve as a model for emulation, according to Hilda Marella Delgado, a consultant and close friend of Huerta's. Delgado organized a 96th birthday celebration for Huerta on June 4 at Los Angeles' Square of Culture and Art.
Dolores Huerta played a pivotal role alongside César Chávez in organizing a series of strikes and boycotts targeting California and other states' farmers in the 1960s and 1970s, ultimately aimed at improving working conditions and achieving unionization for grape workers.
César Chávez's trusted associate, Huerta, played a key role in the United Farm Workers, serving as vice president until his passing in 1993. Huerta was responsible for negotiating agreements with local ranchers, a task he undertook under the iconic United Farm Workers logo, which features a black Aztec eagle on a red background within a white circle.
Dolores Huerta publicly disclosed in 2026 a previously unspoken aspect of her relationship with César Chavez, revealing that she had been a victim of rape by him.
Huerta reflected on her former boss, describing him as a leader who embodied the qualities of a hero, capable of achieving remarkable feats. She chose not to publicly discuss her experiences with him, citing a desire to avoid undermining the movement's progress.
Dolores Huerta publicly condemned the allegations of sexual abuse on March 18 through a letter. In response, the family of César Chávez released a statement, expressing their shock and sadness while offering support to the victims, without formally requesting forgiveness.
Los Angeles County Supervisory Board Chairman Hilda Solís expressed solidarity with Dolores and other survivors of sexual abuse, acknowledging the courage required to share their painful experiences. She emphasized the need for compassion and respect in addressing the traumatic events suffered by Dolores at the hands of César Chavez.
The history of the agricultural workers' movement cannot be fully understood without acknowledging the significant harm inflicted on women. A key figure in this movement, Dolores, played a pivotal role in its development, and her contributions warrant recognition and distinction from those of other individuals.
Los Angeles County flags were ordered to be flown at half-staff on Wednesday by Solís in honor of a prominent labor union leader.
California Governor's candidate Xavier Becerra expressed condolences to the family and loved ones of Dolores Huerta, a prominent labor leader, stating that she embodied the spirit of a true leader who remained true to her roots. Becerra noted that Huerta's humble beginnings were always evident in her work, inspiring others with her determination and passion. He and his wife, Carolina, offered their heartfelt and proud condolences to those closest to her.
Throughout her life, Dolores remained committed to advocating for the rights and interests of marginalized communities, despite encountering sexism and experiencing abuse.
Civil rights icon Dolores Huerta championed the rights of immigrants and women, earning the support of progressive Democrats, including California Governor Jerry Brown, who enacted laws aligned with her advocacy, and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. Notably, Kennedy was present at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles on the day of his assassination in 1968. Later, President Barack Obama honored Huerta's legacy in 2012 by awarding her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States' highest civilian honor.
Angélica Salas, executive director of the Los Angeles Immigrant Human Rights Coalition, reflected on the passing of Dolores Huerta, describing her as a guiding figure and mentor to thousands, who exemplified the unwavering pursuit of justice throughout her life.
Dolores Huerta's unwavering dedication to social change remained unrelenting until her final days, as she continued to amplify the voices of millions who required a platform to be heard. Her resilience and wisdom, as noted by Salas, served as a testament to her enduring commitment to the cause, with Huerta herself recently urging the community to exercise their right to vote just days prior to her passing.
Dolores' unwavering dedication to combating injustice was a defining characteristic, according to Salas. In recognition of her tireless efforts, CHIRLA extends its gratitude to Dolores and her family for their numerous sacrifices, which have significantly contributed to creating a more equitable society where individuals can thrive and have their dignity respected. The nation has lost a champion in Dolores, and her legacy will be remembered for her unrelenting commitment and inspiring mantra, "Yes, it is possible.
Dolores Huerta and César Chavez, prominent figures in labor movements, applied the principles of nonviolent resistance, as advocated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in their civil disobedience and labor protests. Dr. King's teachings had a significant influence on their actions, with Chavez being arrested on multiple occasions, a total of 22 times.
On September 18, 1988, a San Francisco police officer used excessive force during a peaceful protest outside the St. Petersburg hotel, resulting in the officer's violent assault of Francis, which caused multiple rib fractures and severe scrotal damage.
During a campaign event attended by Vice President George H.W. Bush, a police agent used excessive force, striking Huerta multiple times with a nightstick. As a result, Huerta underwent an emergency splenectomy and received over a dozen blood transfusions.
The city of San Francisco has agreed to pay Dolores Huerta $825,000 in compensation following a case of alleged police brutality. In response to the incident, the police department has revised its crowd control and disciplinary policies to address concerns regarding officer conduct.
Following a prolonged period of recovery, Dolores Huerta redirected her efforts, shifting her focus to the advancement of women's rights and encouraging Latin American women to pursue public leadership roles.
Supervisor Solís and Dolores traveled to Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, to advocate for justice on behalf of women who had been victims of murder or disappearance. They are calling for accountability in the cases of feminicides that have had a profound impact on families and communities.
Dolores recognized the significance of being an active participant, a witness to the struggles of women, and a vocal advocate against the disregard of their suffering.
Labor leader Dolores Huerta has been involved in the presidential campaigns of Democratic Party candidates Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden.
California mourns the loss of a legendary figure, Dolores Huerta, whose tireless advocacy gave voice to the voiceless, dignity to marginalized communities, and hope to countless generations. As a renowned civil rights leader, Huerta embodied the power of collective action, inspiring others to stand together against injustice and affirm that positive change is possible.
Dolores Huerta, a devoted mother of 11 children, played a significant role in their upbringing, even nursing them during periods of activism. Over time, her children grew into accomplished individuals, pursuing various careers including law, medicine, therapy, and business administration.
Actor's children from multiple marriages included Celeste and Lori from his first marriage to Ralph Head, and Teresa, Juan, Emilio, Dolores Jr., and Rita from his second marriage to Ventura Huerta. He also had children with Richard Chávez, brother of labor leader César Chávez, including Fernando, Camila, Ramón, and Ricardo.
The passing of Dolores Huerta has been met with profound sadness by thousands of trade union workers, with Arnulfo de la Cruz, president of the International Syndicate of Service Employees in California and SEIU 2015, describing the loss as deeply impactful on the labor movement and personally significant.
Dolores was a highly respected figure in the movement, regarded as a family member by those who knew her. Her tireless efforts to empower workers were evident in her work organizing in the fields, negotiating with large agricultural producers, and advocating for labor rights in state and federal capitals.
De la Cruz credited the influential slogan "Yes you can!" with catalyzing a movement for justice among agricultural workers, ultimately creating a pathway for a new generation of Latinx leaders to enhance the trade union movement's inclusivity and strength. This shift in perspective was marked by an understanding that workers' rights are inextricably linked with those of people with disabilities, individuals seeking reproductive rights, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and immigrants.
A painful revelation
In favour of immigrants
Police brutality
A huge figure
Former President Barack Obama acknowledged Dolores' unwavering dedication to advocating for marginalized communities, despite facing sexism and abuse throughout her life.
