President Petersen Condemns Alleged Abuse, Calls for Honest Reckoning on Cesar Chavez Legacy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, March 18, 2026

PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate President Warren Petersen is speaking out following recent allegations involving labor leader Cesar Chavez, calling for accountability and a broader public conversation about how the state recognizes historical figures.

"The allegations now coming to light are deeply disturbing. If true, they involve serious accusations of sexual misconduct, including the exploitation of vulnerable women and minors. That kind of behavior is not a lapse in judgment, it is predatory. It is evil. And it demands immediate and unequivocal condemnation. No cause, no movement, and no legacy should ever be used to excuse or minimize the abuse of vulnerable people. We should never place anyone above accountability.

"This year, Arizona will not formally recognize Cesar Chavez Day, following the cancellation of events by the United Farm Workers and the Cesar Chavez Foundation. This moment calls for reform rather than celebration. If these allegations are true, the state should no longer recognize Cesar Chavez Day in the future. The farm workers Chavez sought to uplift still deserve our support and advocacy today. We must continue that work while holding firm to the principle that integrity matters in both public and private life," said President Petersen.

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For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov