Cesar Chavez Day Events Canceled Amid Sexual Abuse Allegations

Allegations against labor leader Cesar Chavez prompt cancellation of commemorative events across the country

Mar. 18, 2026 at 10:55am

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Several organizations have canceled Cesar Chavez Day celebrations this month after allegations surfaced that the labor leader and civil rights activist may have engaged in sexually inappropriate behavior with both adults and minors during his time as president of the United Farm Workers of America union. The Cesar Chavez Foundation and UFW Foundation have expressed shock and sadness over the allegations and are working to establish a confidential process for victims to come forward and participate in reparation and reconciliation efforts.

Why it matters

Cesar Chavez is widely revered as a champion for farmworkers' rights and social justice, so the allegations against him have shaken the organizations and communities that honor his legacy. The cancellation of Cesar Chavez Day events across the country reflects the gravity of the situation and the need to prioritize the safety and healing of potential victims.

The details

The allegations against Chavez stem from his time as president of the United Farm Workers of America union, which he co-founded. Few specifics about the allegations have been made public, but the Cesar Chavez Foundation and UFW Foundation have described them as 'disturbing' and 'deeply troubling.' In response, the organizations have pledged to work with farmworker movement leaders to establish a confidential process for victims to come forward and participate in reparation and reconciliation efforts.

  • Cesar Chavez's birthday is March 31, which is observed as Cesar Chavez Day by many communities.
  • The allegations against Chavez surfaced in the weeks leading up to this year's Cesar Chavez Day celebrations.

The players

Cesar Chavez

A labor and civil rights leader who campaigned for better pay and working conditions for farmworkers, including migrants employed in the agricultural industry.

Cesar Chavez Foundation

An organization that works to protect and uplift the families and communities that Chavez served.

United Farm Workers of America

A labor union that Chavez co-founded and served as president of until his death in 1993.

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What they’re saying

“We are deeply shocked and saddened by what we are hearing.”

— Cesar Chavez Foundation

“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.”

— UFW Foundation

What’s next

The Cesar Chavez Foundation and UFW Foundation are working to establish a safe and confidential process for victims to come forward and participate in reparation and reconciliation efforts.

The takeaway

The allegations against Cesar Chavez have shaken the organizations and communities that honor his legacy as a champion for farmworkers' rights and social justice. The cancellation of Cesar Chavez Day events across the country reflects the gravity of the situation and the need to prioritize the safety and healing of potential victims.