Congressman García on the Life and Legacy of Dolores Huerta

October 28, 2026 Press Release CHICAGO — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement honoring Dolores Huerta’s life and legacy: “Today, our hearts are heavy with grief as we mourn a giant of the labor, feminist, and civil rights movements. Dolores Huerta was one of the fiercest and wisest women I have ever known. As co-founder of the United Farm Workers, she poured her soul into leading the boycotts, strikes, and relentless contract negotiations that improved the lives of countless farm workers.” “A trailblazing feminist, she opened Gloria Steinem’s eyes to the critical power of intersectionality across race and class, embracing the deeply personal fight for reproductive rights and helping raise awareness among Latinas about the right to choose. “For over seven decades, she fought tirelessly for the voiceless, organizing marginalized communities for economic, political, and social justice. Through the Dolores Huerta Foundation she trained grassroots leaders and inspired generations to stand up and speak out. “I am forever grateful for her friendship and for her support when I ran for mayor of Chicago in 2014. Walking the campaign trail with Dolores was a learning experience. She was persuasive and could lighten up every conversation with voters. “Dolores gave us the rallying cry that echoes in our hearts forever: “¡Sí se puede!” (Yes, we can!)—because in her world, no obstacle was too great and no hope was out of reach.” “When the painful revelations of the abuse she endured at the hands of Cesar Chavez came to light, our hearts broke for the quiet burden she carried for decades. Yet, in true Dolores fashion, she refused to let pain define her; instead, she continued to transform -heartache into a powerful, unstoppable force for change.” “Dolores will be remembered for her unbreakable spirit and tireless fight for working people. Rest in power, my dear friend.” A video clip of Rep. García talking about Dolores can be found on this link. #  # # Issues : Civil Rights and Women’s Issues Immigration Judiciary Issues/Oversight Labor