Our union must speak out. The revelations about César Chávez and the allegations of sexual abuse are disturbing. For many, he was a symbol of hope and justice, a labor leader and civil rights activist revered by working people everywhere. His abuse of power is a betrayal.
Dolores Huerta said, “I carried this secret for as long as I did because building the movement and securing farmworker rights was my life’s work.” This burden should not have been hers to carry. There is no cause that justifies the violation of women and underage girls. No mission, no legacy, and no reputation is worth more than the dignity and safety of those who were harmed—especially those our movement was meant to protect.
We reject the unspoken rule that women must stay quiet to “maintain the peace.” Women have always been the backbone of labor. In our own union: our female members balance a demanding profession, caring for patients, and raising families, all the while leading committees and serving as shop stewards. Our female staff spearhead negotiations, arbitration, grievances, and fight relentlessly on behalf of every member.
The labor movement has never been immune to the ills of society. Too often, women have been called upon to do the hard work of organizing and sacrificing to sustain labor—and then asked to remain silent and to look the other way when those in power cause harm. UAPD rejects that.
Our commitment as a union is to a culture of equality and accountability. The abuse of power is a problem that runs through every corner of our society. Where there is power and hierarchy, there is the potential for exploitation. We see this every day in our own union work, as people come to us to organize, push back, and hold their employers accountable. Chávez’s actions are not an isolated incident. There were those before him and there will be those after him, unless we organize and speak out.
Let this be a reminder: the labor movement is not one person and it never has been. It’s moved by the hundreds of thousands of workers who see the need for change and take action. It’s the people walking the picket lines and delivering petitions. It’s those who show up to city halls and stand before elected officials to deliver their testimony. It’s the organizers who give up weekends to fight for something bigger than themselves.
The Work Ahead
Our call to those in this movement and beyond: we must do better. Hold those in positions of authority accountable. Not after the damage is done, but before and during. If you witness abuse, speak up. It’s not easy but it’s necessary. The culture that allowed this to go on for decades was upheld by the silence of many. UAPD reminds you that every worker has a voice on the job and the power to use it.