Overview
- Huerta’s family announced on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, that she died of cancer at her home in Bakersfield, and asked for privacy as plans for memorials are arranged.
- She co‑founded the National Farm Workers Association that became the United Farm Workers and served as the union’s vice president for nearly 40 years while organizing strikes, boycotts and contract drives.
- Huerta is credited with coining the rallying cry “Sí, se puede,” won major policy gains for farmworkers and earned honors including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
- Earlier in 2026 Huerta publicly accused César Chávez of sexually assaulting her decades earlier, and a New York Times investigation that reported multiple accusations against Chávez has prompted removals and renamings of Chávez memorials.
- State and national leaders ordered tributes such as flags at half‑staff, unions pledged to continue organizing in her name, and advocates say how institutions respond to her death will shape the movement’s next steps.