UTLA statement on the passing of Dolores Huerta

We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary labor activist Dolores Huerta. This is an immeasurable loss for the labor movement in America and around the world. From her early days organizing farmworkers in California to becoming one of the most influential civil rights leaders of our time, Huerta dedicated her life to defending and advancing the rights of working people and impoverished communities. 

In her early 30s, Huerta co-founded what would become the United Farm Workers and helped lead the historic Delano Grape Strike, transforming the labor movement and paving the way for generations of workers to demand better wages and working conditions. At a time when women were rarely recognized as leaders, she stood up to powerful bosses and challenged the status quo, paving the way for more women to rise into positions of power within the movement. Her commitment to justice, however, extended far beyond union organizing. She fiercely advocated for immigrant rights and women’s rights and was an early champion of the LGBTQIA+ community, recognizing that our struggles for liberation are deeply connected.

In 2019, Huerta joined UTLA on the picket line alongside her grandson and his peers on the third day of our strike. She also stood with us through multiple campaigns to ensure public schools across Los Angeles remained funded, prioritized, and equipped with the resources students and educators need to thrive. Her solidarity with educators will never be forgotten, and her legacy as a labor leader and tireless advocate for marginalized communities will be taught in classrooms for generations to come.  

Even in the final chapter of her life, Dolores continued to demonstrate extraordinary courage. Earlier this year, she broke decades of silence about the abuse she endured within the movement. By shattering the silence, she reminded survivors that it is never too late to speak out against injustice, reclaim their voices, and demand accountability, no matter how much time has passed.

We extend our deepest condolences to Dolores’ family, loved ones, and the countless people whose lives she touched. Her legacy will live on in every picket line, every organizing campaign, and every worker who continues to fight for dignity and respect on the job. While her loss is deeply felt by all of us, we know Dolores would want us to continue the work and live by her words: “Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” Rest in Power, Dolores Huerta. ¡Sí se puede!