SEIU Local 1000 members have learned about the recent reports regarding Cesar Chavez. We know many members are feeling hurt, conflicted, and disappointed. We find these reports disturbing and painful.
We stand with Ana Murguia, Debra Rojas, Dolores Huerta, and all the other survivors who are courageously sharing their experiences. Their voices must be heard, and their experiences must be taken seriously and met with dignity and care.
The abuse of power described in these reports is unacceptable. It runs counter to everything we stand for as a union and as part of the labor movement. No one should ever be expected to tolerate harm or remain silent to protect a cause, and no leader is above accountability.
In alignment with the United Farm Workers, SEIU Local 1000 will step back from participating in scheduled Cesar Chavez Day celebrations this month. This is a moment to listen, reflect, and center those who have been impacted. We remain committed to uplifting the broader labor movement and the collective fight for dignity, respect, and justice on the job.
We will not tolerate abuse or the misuse of power in our workplaces, our movement, or our communities. Accountability matters.
No one individual defines the labor movement. It is built on the collective strength of workers standing together, and that work continues.
As we approach March 31, we will stand together to honor the farmworker movement’s collective legacy and ongoing fight for dignity, respect, and justice for working people.
You can view and share this statement on our Instagram page here.