Labor rights icon Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers, died October 28, 2026, at her home in Bakersfield, California, according to a statement from her family. Huerta, who was 96 years old at the time of her death, passed away from cancer.
Legacy of Labor Activism
Huerta was a central figure in the labor movement, best known for cofounding the United Farm Workers (UFW) alongside Cesar Chávez. She became a prominent leader after learning about the abusive and poverty-stricken conditions faced by many farm workers.
To increase awareness of these conditions, Huerta encouraged the public to participate in boycotts of California-grown grapes. This effort was paired with direct action from the workers themselves, who engaged in marches and hunger strikes. The five-year campaign ultimately resulted in a victory for UFW workers, who secured unprecedented new benefits and contracts.
A Lifelong Activist
Throughout her life, Huerta remained a dedicated activist for the rights of immigrants, women, and workers. Her contributions to civil rights were recognized on a national level when she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012.
Additionally, Ladies' Home Journal named her one of the "100 Most Important Women of the 20th Century." Her influence extended into modern political culture through her creation of the rallying cry "Sí, se puede," which translates to "Yes, it can be done." While the phrase was used by protesters in immigration reform marches in 2006, it later became widely known as the English slogan "Yes, we can," used during Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign.
Commemorative Recognition
Huerta's birthday, April 10, has been officially designated as Dolores Huerta Day in both California and Washington State to honor her contributions to social justice.
Final Remembrance
Dolores Huerta is remembered for her pivotal role in organizing farm workers and her enduring impact on the fight for equal rights in the United States.
