Dolores Huerta and other women have accused the late Cesar Chavez of sexual violence. The New York Times did an investigation exploring the allegations. The question remains why did Huerta decide to speak now. Her reasoning was that discussing this would harm the farm workers movement. The problem related to this situation is that evidence has not been presented. However, it appears the press has declared Chavez guilty. Dolores Huerta stated that Chavez manipulated and pressured into sexual activity. Huerta then explained she did not say no, because Chavez was a person she admired. This becomes more suspicious in the first encounter. The other accusation was that Chavez cornered Huerta in a car. Three other women made accusations of sexual misconduct and rape. The United Farm Workers responded by not participating in events for Cesar Chavez Day. UFW claims it never got reports of abuse. Attempts are being made for an internal investigation. Now, there are calls to have Cesar Chavez's name to be removed from buildings and murals. The unfortunate aspect of this is that anti-immigrant groups are using this as an excuse for discrimination. Texas governor Greg Abbott wants to eliminate Cesar Chavez Day to erase Mexican American history. The sexual violence allegations were a justification for the policy. The timing of this New York Times investigation is even more suspect. The wave of anti-immigrant sentiment and ICE violence is prevalent. Removal of honors of a Mexican American icon of civil rights follows a pattern of prejudice. Cesar Chavez died in 1993 and the alleged crimes occurred in the the 1960s and 1970s. The statue of limitations means there will not be criminal charges. Women must report sexual violence immediately to ensure safety . Otherwise, doubts remain about how truthful accusations are.
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