LPPI Statement on the Passing of Dolores Huerta

The UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute (LPPI) mourns Dolores Huerta’s passing. Her leadership raised the standard of living for farmworkers across California and redefined what it meant to be a woman in power. At a time when women, especially Chicanas, were expected to remain on the sidelines, Huerta was on the front lines of protests and at the head of bargaining tables. Her courage in the face of violence, sexism, and racism showed workers, immigrants, and women that their voices matter. 

Huerta’s dedication to creating lasting change can be seen in state capitols where Latinas now hold a record number of seats and classrooms where her story inspires generations of future leaders. 

Her legacy touches every part of LPPI’s work. We remember her by the rallying cry she coined – Sí, se puede – which reminds us that a world where workers can support their families with dignity, and people understand the power of their own voice, is always worth fighting for.