Civil rights activist Dolores Huerta dies at 96

Dolores Huerta, a prominent civil-rights activist and labor organizer, died at the age of 96. The Dolores Huerta Foundation announced her passing and asked for privacy for her family during the mourning period.

Huerta began her career as a school teacher before turning to community organizing after witnessing the hardships faced by children of farmworkers. She co-founded the National Farmworkers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers, alongside Cesar Chavez. Huerta is also credited with popularising the rallying cry “Sí, se puede.”

California officials issued statements honoring her legacy. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas said, “California mourns a giant. Dolores Huerta gave voice to the voiceless, dignity to the fields and hope to generations.” U.S. Representative Josh Harder added, “The Valley lost a giant today. Dolores Huerta dedicated her life to fighting for labor and civil rights, changing the lives of working families across the Valley and the country.” Representative Mike Thompson wrote, “She fought her entire life to improve the lives of farmworkers and for a more just and dignified world for us all.” Governor Gavin Newsom described her as representing “the best of us” and announced that flags would be flown at half-staff in her honor.

The Stockton Unified School District noted that Huerta attended Stockton High School and highlighted the naming of Dolores Huerta Elementary School in her memory.