Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Statement on Allegations Against César Chávez

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29) released the following statement in response to allegations of abuse by César Chávez:

"The allegations detailed in recent reporting about César Chávez are deeply disturbing and heartbreaking.

"We have to be clear: no legacy, no matter how historic, places anyone above accountability.

"I believe the victims. It takes immense courage to come forward, and they deserve to be heard, treated with dignity, and supported.

"I was especially saddened to learn of what Dolores Huerta endured. Dolores is a dear friend, a trailblazer, and one of the most consequential leaders in the fight for workers' rights. Her strength and honesty in sharing her story highlight the responsibility we all have to confront the truth, no matter how difficult it may be.

"César Chávez helped build a movement that transformed the lives of farmworkers and elevated the voices of Latino communities across this country. That history is real. But so are these allegations. We cannot honor one truth while ignoring the other.

"I stand with the farmworkers who feed this nation and with the United Farm Workers as they move through this painful moment. The movement has always been bigger than any one person. Its strength lies in the people and their commitment to justice.

"We must move forward with compassion for the victims, respect for truth, and a commitment to accountability. That is how we honor the values this movement was built on and make sure they endure."