The statement from the Cesar Chavez Foundation, was released early today.
“The Cesar Chavez Foundation has become aware of disturbing allegations that Cesar Chavez engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors during his time as President of the United Farm Workers of America (UFW).
Little by little, the news has been emerging, with articles online increasing by the hour.
The media is doing what they do best, reporting on what information they have and digging for more. But the New York Times has been working on this story for years, and that story was set to publish on Cesar’s Birthday, March 31. We are sure a lot more details on, yet again, another incident of alleged “inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors”.
If these allegations are true, the focus should always be the victims. It is a hard time for all. It will also be hard on our community as a revered hero is taken down.
Filmmaker, Writer and Humanitarian Border Relief Volunteer, David Damian Figueroa and Latin Heat Founder, Bel Hernandez Castillo, both very active and with deep ties to the community, penned a letter addressing this news. We hope you will share the sentiment
A Path Forward with Hope and Faith
There is no doubt that this is a devastating turn of events, and is heavy on our minds and spirits. No doubt, the mainstream news, the current political climate, gossip, innuendo, and finger-pointing will be ramped up on social media and in the mainstream news.
We must prepare. Our future will be difficult to navigate, and this news is not just any conversation; it is a pivotal moment in Chicano/Mexicano history—one that could reshape our collective future.
We urge every Latino to create an environment that radiates kindness and respect as they move forward. Let us create spaces that are sanctuaries for truth-telling, allowing everyone to express themselves and process this devastating news while also protecting one another.
The way forward for the Latino community will depend on our working together so that a spirit of honor and collaboration emerges from respectful dialogue. What we do now will be a defining moment for us all. The narratives we craft today will echo through time, and unity will be our greatest strength in the days to come.
Our young people will look to us—trusting that we will help carry the weight of this responsibility with grace, integrity, and forgiveness. Hope is what we need to foster, and it starts with your willingness to engage thoughtfully, compassionately, and with purpose.
Each of us has the power to inspire and lead. Let this moment be the spark that ignites a brighter path forward with hope and faith.
David Damian Figueroa, Filmmaker, Writer and Humanitarian Border Relief Volunteer
Bel Hernandez Castillo, Founder, Latin Heat Media
About the Author
