Austin’s César Chávez March Canceled Following Abuse Allegations

Austin joins cities across the country in cancelling its annual César Chávez March, originally scheduled for March 28, amid sexual abuse allegations against the labor leader.

Civil rights leader and co-founder of the United Farm Workers Dolores Huerta announced on Wednesday that following a New York Times’ multi-year investigation into sexual misconduct by Chávez that she could no longer stay silent. She shared that she experienced two separate sexual encounters with Chávez, one where she was manipulated and pressured and the second time forced against her will.

These led to pregnancies that she kept secret. She arranged for the children “to be raised by other families that could give them stable lives,” according to her statement. The New York Times also reported that two other women accused Chávez of abusing them when they were minors.

The march, hosted by the Hispanic Advocates Business Leaders of Austin (HABLA) and People Organized in Defense of Earth and Her Resources (PODER), shared they will “seek new ways for Austin to support working families and pursue justice and economic opportunities.”

“For decades, the annual César Chávez March in Austin has served as a powerful reminder of the values we all fought for—equality, justice, and dignity for all workers,” said Alicia Perez-Hodge, Co-Founder of HABLA and District VII Director for LULAC. “While we are deeply disappointed to pause this tradition, our priorities and commitments remain focused on the good and welfare of our community.”

Amid calls for potentially renaming César Chávez Street in Austin, Council Members Vanessa Fuentes, José Velásquez, José “Chito” Vela as well as Travis County Attorney Delia Garza released a joint statement expressing their concerns.

“The center of our city and the heart of East Austin should reflect our commitment to justice,” the statement said. “We support the renaming of Cesar Chavez Street and will begin the discussion with the community at the forefront.”