ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Dolores Huerta, a prominent labor leader and civil rights icon, is best known for coining the empowering slogan “Si, se puede” in 1972. This rallying cry emerged from her tireless efforts to unite farmworkers in Arizona against legislation that sought to suppress their rights to strike and boycott. This phrase, which translates to “Yes, it can be done,” has become emblematic of resilience and determination, not only in labor movements but also in broader social justice contexts.
Huerta’s influence extends beyond her initial activism; former President Barack Obama famously adapted her phrase for his 2008 campaign, transforming it into “Yes, we can.” As a co-founder of what eventually became the United Farm Workers (UFW) union, Huerta has spent decades advocating for the rights of workers, focusing on securing better wages, health benefits, and improved working conditions.
At nearly 96 years old, Huerta remains an active advocate for marginalized communities, continuing to fight against discrimination and inequality.
Recently, Huerta made headlines when she disclosed that she had been sexually abused by César Chavez, the co-founder of the UFW, leading to the birth of two children—a secret she carried for 60 years. This revelation has sparked discussions and calls for her name to replace Chavez’s on various public buildings, schools, monuments, and streets across the nation.
Activist Roots
The story of Huerta’s life is one of remarkable resilience and commitment. Born Dolores Clara Fernandez in 1930 in Dawson, New Mexico, she was raised in a culturally rich environment that fostered her passion for social justice. Her father was a miner and union activist, which instilled in her the values of advocacy and community engagement. Following her parents’ divorce, Huerta and her siblings moved to California with their mother, where she became increasingly aware of the struggles faced by farmworkers in the San Joaquin Valley.
Before her full immersion into activism, Huerta worked as an elementary school teacher. However, witnessing her students’ dire living conditions ignited her desire to make a broader impact beyond the classroom. It was in the 1950s that she met Chavez through her early civil rights work, and their shared vision led to the establishment of the National Farm Workers Association in 1962, which later became the UFW.
Chavez recognized Huerta’s fearless nature and unyielding dedication to the movement, frequently acknowledging her as a pivotal force in negotiations and organizing efforts.
A Long Legacy
Throughout her career, Huerta has demonstrated unwavering courage, even facing arrest over 20 times for her participation in demonstrations. Her activism has not only focused on labor rights but has also expanded to encompass women’s rights and the empowerment of Latina leaders. After a significant injury during a protest in 1988, she redirected her efforts towards campaigning for women’s rights and encouraging Latinas to take on leadership roles.
Huerta continues to speak and march for social justice under the banner of her Dolores Huerta Foundation. She has campaigned extensively for Democratic Presidents Bill Clinton, Obama, and Joe Biden, and maintains close ties with California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Her life’s work has garnered numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by Obama in 2012, who praised her as a formidable leader and humorously acknowledged her influence on his campaign slogan.
As the first Latina inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame, Huerta has also received multiple honorary doctorates and has schools named in her honor across several states. Murals depicting her image and streets named after her, including an avenue in Albuquerque that partially honors both her and Chavez, serve as a testament to her enduring legacy.
In light of her recent revelations, there has been a growing movement on social media advocating for the renaming of streets and institutions to honor Huerta exclusively. Prominent figures, including U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico, have expressed their support, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the strength of those who have suffered in silence to protect a movement.
“I cannot imagine the pain and suffering they’ve endured over decades,” Heinrich stated, underscoring the need to acknowledge the profound impact of Huerta’s contributions and sacrifices.
