March 17, 2026
VIA UFW FOUNDATION — As a women-led organization that exists to empower communities, the allegations about abusive behavior by Cesar Chavez go against everything that we stand for. These disturbing allegations involve inappropriate behavior by Cesar Chavez with young women and minors, they are shocking, indefensible and something we are taking seriously.
Recognizing how serious the allegations are, the UFW Foundation has cancelled all Cesar Chavez Day activities this month.
For nearly 20 years, the UFW Foundation has worked to advocate, organize and provide direct services that protect and serve farm workers and immigrants—many of whom are women, and many of whom have shared their painful stories with us. We know this is difficult and painful and the healing and safety of survivors is of utmost importance to us.
Today, with staff in California, Washington, Georgia, Michigan, New York, Illinois and Arizona, the UFW Foundation continues to empower communities and will continue to center its work on protecting the most vulnerable.
If you or anyone that you know has been a victim of sexual assault, we encourage you to seek support:
National Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by RAINN
- Offers free, confidential, 24/7/365 support in English and Spanish
- Call 1-800-656- HOPE (4673)/Text “HOPE” to 64673
- Online chat and helpful resources available on website at: rainn.org
National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Offers free, confidential, 24/7/365 support in English, Spanish, and other languages for those impacted by relationship abuse
- Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) /Text “START” to 88788
- Helpful resources and online chat available at: www.thehotline.org
- National directory of Local Service Providers by zip code: www.thehotline.org/get-help/directory-of-local-providers/