California Universities Remove Cesar Chávez Monuments Following Sexual Abuse Allegations

Multiple California educational institutions are removing or covering statues of civil rights leader Cesar Chávez following sexual abuse accusations. Fresno State University announced it will permanently remove its 1996 bronze sculpture by Paul A. Suarez from its Peace Garden, temporarily covering it with wooden planks. California State San Marcos said it would cover its 1997 sculpture by T.J. Dixon and James Nelson while considering further action. San Jose State University is evaluating spaces featuring Chávez, including Judy Baca's 'Arch of Dignity, Equality, and Justice.' The California Museum in Sacramento also pledged to remove laudatory references. These decisions follow New York Times reports detailing allegations from three women, including co-founder Dolores Huerta, who accused Chávez of sexual abuse when they were teenagers. The accusations have prompted institutions to reconsider Chávez's legacy despite his historical role in founding the United Farm Workers and advancing farmworker rights in the 1960s.