Arizona Cancels Cesar Chavez Day Amid Abuse Allegations

Governor's office cites "troubling allegations" against the late civil rights leader

Mar. 18, 2026 at 2:21am

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The state of Arizona has announced it will not recognize Cesar Chavez Day on March 31 this year following "troubling allegations" of sexual abuse against the late labor icon. The Cesar Chavez Foundation recently became aware of allegations that Chavez engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors while president of the United Farm Workers Union (UFW).

Why it matters

Cesar Chavez is a revered figure in the Latino community and his legacy as a civil rights leader has long been celebrated in Arizona. The decision to cancel the state holiday marks a significant shift and raises questions about how Chavez's complex legacy will be viewed going forward.

The details

Governor Katie Hobbs' office released a statement saying they take the allegations "very seriously" and have decided not to recognize Cesar Chavez Day this year. State Representative Adelita Grijalva also issued a statement expressing deep concern and saying the community is "with the survivors." The Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council has postponed their annual Cesar Chavez Day breakfast, while the UFW has canceled their events and is instead asking supporters to participate in immigration justice efforts.

  • Cesar Chavez Day is usually celebrated on March 31 in Arizona.

The players

Katie Hobbs

The Governor of Arizona who announced the state will not recognize Cesar Chavez Day this year.

Adelita Grijalva

An Arizona state representative who released a statement expressing concern over the allegations against Cesar Chavez.

Cesar Chavez

The late civil rights leader and co-founder of the United Farm Workers union, who is accused of engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors.

United Farm Workers Union (UFW)

The labor union founded by Cesar Chavez, which is canceling its Cesar Chavez Day events and asking supporters to participate in immigration justice efforts instead.

Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC)

A local organization that has postponed its annual Cesar Chavez Day breakfast in light of the allegations.

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What they’re saying

“The Governor's Office is deeply concerned by the troubling allegations against César Chávez. 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. The Governor's Office has decided to not recognize César Chávez Day this year. Our thoughts are with the victims and all those affected.”

— Office of Governor Katie Hobbs

“I am deeply troubled by recent reports of allegations of sexual abuse, including incidents involving minors, brought against Cesar E. Chavez. To the survivors: estamos con ustedes – we are with you. We hear you, we believe you, and we admire the immense courage it takes to speak out. I know that there is a profound sense of grief in our community today that may bring mixed emotions. The betrayal of trust by a leader who had such a significant impact on our community is difficult to comprehend. It is ok to feel angry, shocked, heartbroken, saddened, confused, and dismayed – all at the same time. We still have more questions than answers. However, it is important to remember that one person does not define a movement. We, the people, are the movement. El movimiento has always been rooted in justice, and justice demands that survivors are supported and heard. I stand with them unequivocally.”

— Adelita Grijalva, State Representative

What’s next

The UFW says they are working to establish a confidential channel for any victims to come forward with additional information about the allegations against Cesar Chavez.

The takeaway

The decision by Arizona to cancel Cesar Chavez Day amid abuse allegations against the revered civil rights leader highlights the complex legacy of historical figures and the need to carefully examine their actions, especially when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable. This will likely spark difficult but necessary conversations within the Latino community about how to reconcile Chavez's important work with the troubling allegations against him.