The Department of Latino/a and Latin American Studies denounces the acts of violence against women and girls committed by C茅sar E. Ch谩vez.
Gender-based violence is always reprehensible, regardless of who perpetrates it. Fear of retaliation, shame, and not being believed make it incredibly difficult for survivors to come forward. The silence many survivors carry is also sustained by reverence for individuals whose public legacies obscure private harms. We stand with Dolores Huerta, Ana Murguia, Debra Rojas, and all survivors of violence whose experiences are too often minimized or hidden by power. We are grateful for their courage in sharing their testimonies.
As scholars and activists with long-term compromiso to social movements, including the farmworker movement, we recognize that these revelations may bring deep pain to many in our communities. For many, the enduring work of the farmworker movement has been a source of courage, dignity, and inspiration. We also know that social movements do not belong to any single person. They are the product of collective action and sacrifice of the many who are committed to each other and the advancement of social justice. Taking time to reflect critically with our history does not mean rejection or erasure. Rather, we must confront these truths and learn from the past to ensure that violence in social movements and in our institution are never tolerated. As a department, we are committed to fostering space of critical reflection, accountability, care and solidarity. We also reaffirm our support for ongoing organizing, whether on campus or en los campos that seeks to speak truth to power.
In recognition that these revelations can be triggering, we encourage our community to approach one another with compassion and seek out support. SA国际传媒 students can reach out to Emmons Wellness Center for walk-in counseling Monday-Friday 1:00-3:00pm or schedule an appointment by calling (323) 259-2657. There is also a 24/7 confidential crisis line which can be reached at (323) 341-4141.