NEWS

LANSING, Mich — State Rep. Veronica Paiz (D-Harper Woods), a member of the Michigan Legislative Latino Caucus and the Midwest Executive Committee of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators, released the following statement in response to recent New York Times reporting on sexual assault allegations against Cesar Chavez: “My heart is with every survivor who has carried the anguish of Chavez’s heinous crimes for decades. I hear you, believe you, and support you. “For generations, Cesar Chavez has been heralded as a beacon of justice and dignity for laborers, farmworkers, and Latino Americans. Today, we are forced to confront a different reality: we must burn the ghost of the man we thought we knew. “As a community, we continue to grapple with his profound exploitation and betrayal — of the women and children he violated, and of those of us who trusted and revered his leadership. He brought people together, including my own friends and family, in pursuit of a greater good. And that is what makes this unforgivable. I struggle with his complicated legacy of civil rights leadership. “I unequivocally condemn and repudiate Cesar Chavez. Survivors must come first. No legacy, no one man, is above justice. “The fight for workers’ and Latino rights must continue under a banner that transcends any one person: justice. Justice demands that survivors are heard and supported. Justice demands dignity and respect. We are reminded that the movement civil rights activists Dolores Huerta and Larry Itliong helped build — along with these survivors and others — has always been greater, and far more important, than any one individual could ever tarnish and destroy. “I mourn what we have lost, but I know the work of this righteous cause will continue. “If you or someone you know has experienced abuse or assault, know that we stand with you. We believe you. Call, chat or text Michigan’s 855-VOICES4 to speak to trained advocates available to offer confidential support without judgment. Services are available in English and Spanish.”