DeLauro Statement on Death of Dolores Huerta

October 28, 2026 Press Release Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement following news that Dolores Huerta, a champion in the American labor movement, passed away: “Dolores Huerta was a giant of the labor movement. As co-founder of the United Farm Workers, she spent her life fighting to ensure a safe workplace and fair wages were guaranteed rights for all workers.  From the grape boycott, which I participated in, to the first law that gave Californian farmworkers the right to bargain collectively – she changed the course of the American labor movement. “The fights she won ensured future generations of American workers would not have to toil in unsafe conditions for low wages – and built the foundation for the battles we fight for workers to this day. “This summer, I was honored to be recognized by the American Federation of Teachers at the same convention where they celebrated Dolores for her lifetime of work. Being in her company was a reminder that every fight won in the labor movement was won by workers who did not give up or take no for an answer. Dolores never gave up. And neither will we. “I am praying for her children, her family, and the millions of workers whose lives are better because of her. We will carry the fight forward.”