ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Dolores Huerta, a legendary figure in civil rights and labor advocacy, passed away recently, sparking a wave of tributes from those inspired by her life and work. Many shared personal stories about how Huerta encouraged them to engage in public service, volunteerism, and community organizing.
Deanna Muñoz, who leads the Chicano Center for the Arts in Missouri, remarked that although she never met Huerta, the civil rights icon’s bravery and passion continue to resonate with those who strive for justice. “She taught generations of Chicanas like me that we don’t have to ask permission to take up space, that our voices matter, and that standing up for our people is never something we should apologize for,” Muñoz expressed on social media.
Numerous leaders and organizations have also reflected on Huerta’s profound influence:
Voices Remembering Huerta
US Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández, New Mexico Democrat: “At every rally, Dolores Huerta would ask, ‘Who has the power?’ And together, we would roar back, ‘The people have the power!’ She spent her life reminding us that power doesn’t belong to the wealthy or the powerful. It belongs to the people who march, who organize, who vote, who stand up for one another. Dolores may not be here to lead the chant, but her voice will echo through generations. And every time we raise our voices for justice, we will answer her call.”
NAACP President Derrick Johnson: “When Dolores turned 21, she celebrated her birthday by registering to vote. As we honor her today and every day, let’s do our part to fight for labor rights, to fight for civil rights, and to make our voices heard at the ballot box. May she rest in peace and power.”
Katharine Pichardo, Latino Victory Project president and CEO: “Without Dolores, Latino Victory would not exist — we are eternally grateful to her for breaking barriers and paving the way for Latino civil rights, political power, and Latina activism. She inspired millions, and the best way to honor her memory is to keep advocating for working families and civil rights, and to strengthen Latino political power.”
Former US Interior Secretary Ken Salazar: “Dolores Huerta’s living legacy is her lifelong struggle for justice for the farmworkers who feed our nation. My family and I were honored to work alongside her for more than 50 years, inspired by her leadership and powerful voice across the United States and Mexico. She understood that our diversity is our greatest strength and that together, we can build a more just and inclusive America. In her words, we can change the world for the better: ¡Sí se puede!”
Fatima Goss Graves, National Women’s Law Center president and CEO: “Huerta showed extreme bravery and fortitude, even toward the end of her life when she powerfully reminded everyone that every survivor should be heard, believed and supported. We hope to honor Dolores Huerta by continuing the work of achieving justice for all and supporting workers across every community.”
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham: “Well into her nineties, Dolores spoke hard truths regardless of personal cost. She showed up for people who were at risk, taken advantage of, underserved and unheard until the day she died. My heart is with her family and the Dolores Huerta Foundation. Rest in power, Dolores.”
California state Sen. Anna Caballero: “Dolores Huerta was a force to be reckoned with, and she made no apologies for it. She confronted those in power, refused to be silenced and dedicated her life to workers who deserved dignity, fair wages and a better future. … She never backed down, and neither should we. Her legacy asks something of each of us: to stand firm even when it’s hard and even when the odds are against us.”
