PHOENIX — Arizona’s political and community leaders paid tribute on Wednesday to Dolores Huerta, the 96‑year‑old civil‑rights and labor organizer who died earlier in the day. Huerta, a co‑founder of the United Farm Workers union, is remembered for her tireless advocacy for farmworkers, working families, and the dignity of every individual.
State officials recall personal mentorship
Democratic U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego, who counted Huerta as a mentor, called her “a true champion for civil rights, one of our nation’s greatest activists, and a pillar of our community.” He added that her advocacy secured better pay, safer working conditions, and greater opportunities for workers nationwide. Gallego, Arizona’s first Latino U.S. senator, highlighted that Huerta chaired his first campaign for the Arizona State House and helped him win the 2024 election.
Local leaders emphasize family and faith values
Phoenix City Councilwoman Betty Guardado said Huerta’s example “means so much to me as a Latina and a labor leader.” Guardado noted that Huerta showed generations of women that their voices belong at the bargaining table, on the picket line, and in government halls. She announced a candlelight vigil outside Phoenix City Hall at 7 p.m. to honor Huerta’s memory.
Governor Katie Hobbs posted on X that Arizona and the nation have lost “a true champion of civil rights.” She praised Huerta’s courage and expressed sympathy for her family, loved ones, and the community grieving her loss.
Federal representatives join the chorus
U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly and former Rep. Gabby Giffords said they were “lucky” to know Huerta. Kelly wrote that her unifying message of hope, embodied in the 1972 Phoenix chant “Sí, se puede,” made Arizona and the country a better place.
U.S. Rep. Yassamin Ansari argued that “Arizona would not be the state it is today without Dolores Huerta.” Fellow Democratic Rep. Greg Stanton, a former Phoenix mayor, called her legacy “deeply woven into the fabric of Arizona,” noting her fearless organizing and the stronger voice she gave to working people.
Attorney General Kris Mayes described Huerta’s impact on Arizona’s Latino community and the nation as “immeasurable,” adding that “we owe so much to her courage and leadership.”
Legislative bodies issue statements
The Arizona House Democratic Caucus said Huerta “will remain an inspiration long after this very sad day,” noting her willingness to return to Arizona for advocacy work. Arizona Senate Democrats echoed that her “strength, integrity, and conviction inspired generations of women, Latinos, and working people to recognize their power and demand a better future.”
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego posted that Huerta’s legacy reminds Arizonans that “no matter how difficult the challenge, Sí, se puede!”
Personal revelation adds depth to her story
Earlier this year, Huerta disclosed that she had been sexually abused in the 1960s by United Farm Workers co‑founder César Chávez, a revelation that shocked the Latino community. She explained that she remained silent for decades to protect the progress she had helped achieve for workers.
Community remembrance
Across the state, labor groups, faith‑based organizations, and families plan memorial services to celebrate Huerta’s life. Her message of hope, rooted in family values, faith, and the dignity of work, continues to inspire activists and ordinary citizens alike.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
