The United Farm Workers says it won’t participate in parades honoring its founder César Chávez, citing “troubling allegations” that Chávez abused young women, possibly including minors.
Why it matters: The allegations raise serious concerns about harm possibly done to women and minors, and threaten to tarnish the legacy of Chávez, one of the most celebrated Latino labor leaders in U.S. history.
The latest: The union’s statement Tuesday comes after Chávez parades were canceled in San Antonio and Corpus Christi, Texas.
- UFW said what is alleged against Chávez is incompatible with the union’s values, per the statement.
- The union said it has no firsthand knowledge or direct reports but considers the allegations serious enough to act.
What they’re saying: “Allegations that very young women or girls may have been victimized are crushing,” the UFW said…