03/20/2026
“Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” — Dolores Huerta
As we mark Women’s History Month, we honor the courage and legacy of Dolores Huerta, a trailblazing labor leader, Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, and the voice behind “Sí, se puede” (“Yes, we can”).
This week, at age 95, Dolores Huerta broke a 60-year silence to share her truth: she was sexually assaulted by Cesar Chavez, her co-founder in the United Farm Workers movement, in the 1960s. For decades, she carried this burden in private, fearing that the truth might harm the movement she helped build. Her decision to speak out now is an act of profound bravery and a call for all of us to stand with survivors.
Huerta’s life has been defined by resilience. In 1988, she survived a brutal beating by police during a peaceful protest, an experience that only strengthened her resolve to fight for justice and against violence in all forms, especially violence against women. She has always championed the right of every woman to live, lead, and organize free from fear.
At Santa Cruz Community Health, our legacy as a women’s health collective grounds our commitment to advancing equity, safety, and dignity for all. We are proud to stand with Dolores Huerta and all survivors, continuing our work to create a community where everyone can thrive without fear.
Violence against women is not just a women’s issue; it is a human rights issue. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s honor Dolores Huerta with action. Stand with us: support survivors in our community, advocate for protection against gender-based violence, and foster safe, equitable workplaces for all. Together, we can build a world where everyone thrives in safety and dignity.
Thank you for standing with us. Thank you for standing with Dolores.
