The AFL-CIO is calling for a full investigation into newly reported allegations of abuse involving labor leader Cesar Chavez, first reported by The New York Times.
Chavez, who co-founded the United Farm Workers and led historic boycotts and strikes that helped win rights and protections for farmworkers, has long been a central figure in labor and civil rights history.
In a statement, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond described the allegations as “horrific and disturbing,” adding that “no legacy can excuse it,” and expressing solidarity with those who have come forward.
The federation says it will not participate in or endorse upcoming Cesar Chavez Day events, while reaffirming its longstanding support for farmworkers and the broader labor movement.
“The labor movement was organized not only to protect workers’ paychecks and benefits,” said Shuler and Redmond, “but also to ensure they are safe from any form of harassment, inappropriate conduct, or assault.”
Statement online here.
Cesar Chavez, center, and Ana Murguia, right, in a black shirt (one of the sources of the allegations), during the United Farm Workers’ 1,000 Mile March in 1975. Photo by Cathy Murphy/Getty Images