Los Angeles County is seeking input from its residents on whether to rename landmarks like parks, roads, and public artworks named after Cesar Chavez. This initiative comes in response to recent sexual abuse allegations against the late labor leader, sparking a reassessment of his legacy in the region and beyond.
The survey, consisting of six questions, aims to give the community a say in decisions rather than leaving it to political leaders.
“We want to ensure this is a process of inclusivity and engagement. We value community voices and insights, and your participation will help shape our decisions,” the county’s website states.
In March, an investigation by the New York Times exposed allegations that Chavez exploited his position as the leader of the Farm Workers Alliance to sexually abuse women and children over several decades. Notably, United Farm Workers co-founder Dolores Huerta accused Chavez of rape and assault in the 1960s, while others, such as Ana Murguia and Debra Rojas, shared similar claims from the 1970s.
These revelations led to the United Farm Workers organization denouncing Chavez’s actions and ignited broader efforts to strip his name from public spaces nationwide.
The head of the Los Angeles County Chief Executive Office noted that responses to the survey would inform subsequent actions, emphasizing that the community would guide the process. The survey will be open until July 26, inviting residents to weigh in on the future of Chavez-named places.
The initial questions tackle how the county should address monuments dedicated to historical figures accused of misconduct. Residents will consider factors like the nature of the allegations, the historical contributions of those figures, and the economic implications of changing names.
Additionally, participants will reflect on concerns about shifting names, such as fears of erasing history or allowing political motives to overshadow factual assessments. The survey also invites suggestions for a respectful vetting process, ranging from expert committees to prioritizing community impact.
In the latter half of the survey, opinions will be sought on how to weigh credible allegations against individual historic achievements regarding Chavez. Residents will be prompted to propose alternative names if Chavez’s designations are altered, with ideas like “Harvest Park” or paying homage to fellow activists like Dolores Huerta.
The county aims for an anonymous collection of feedback, ensuring that participation remains genuine and candid. The overarching goal is to create a process that reflects the community’s rich history, diverse culture, and shared values.
Among the significant locations under reconsideration are sections of Cesar Chavez Street and various civic artworks owned by the county. This effort comes on the heels of other actions taken around California, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s renaming of Cesar Chavez Day to “Farmworker Day.” Other local governments are also reassessing honors and monuments linked to Chavez in response to the recent allegations.
