Dolores Huerta Dies at 96: Remembering the Civil Rights Icon Who Changed America’s Farmworker Movement

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Dolores Huerta, the influential American labour organiser and civil rights activist who helped transform the lives of agricultural workers across the United States, has died at the age of 96. Her death marks the loss of a pioneering figure whose decades of activism advanced workers’ rights, challenged inequality and inspired generations of social justice campaigners.

Born in New Mexico in 1930 and raised in California, Huerta initially worked as a teacher before turning to community organising. Witnessing the poverty and hardship experienced by farmworkers and their families motivated her to fight for better conditions. In 1962, she joined forces with fellow activist César Chávez to establish the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers union.

Huerta played a major role in organising strikes, negotiating labour agreements and mobilising public support for agricultural workers who faced low wages, unsafe working conditions and limited legal protections. She helped lead the historic Delano grape strike and the nationwide grape boycott, encouraging consumers to support workers demanding fair treatment. These campaigns contributed to improved wages, benefits and stronger protections for farmworkers.

Beyond labour rights, Huerta championed women’s equality, immigrant rights and political participation. Her famous rallying cry, “Sí, se puede,” meaning “Yes, we can,” became an enduring symbol of collective action and later inspired Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign slogan. In 2012, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the United States’ highest civilian honours, in recognition of her contribution to the country.

In 2026, Huerta also made headlines after publicly disclosing that Chávez had sexually abused her decades earlier, resulting in two pregnancies. Her revelation prompted renewed reflection on the history of the farmworker movement and the personal experiences of those who helped lead it.

Huerta founded the Dolores Huerta Foundation in 2003 to strengthen communities through grassroots organising, leadership development and civic engagement. Even in her later years, she continued advocating for social change and encouraging young people to participate in public life. Her legacy extends beyond the victories she helped secure, standing as a reminder of how determined individuals and organised communities can challenge injustice and reshape society.