California Museum Statement on Cesar Chavez

March 18, 2026

Following is an official statement from the California Museum regarding the recent allegations surrounding Cesar Chavez:

Based on the credibility of the allegations outlined in the New York Times article published on March 18, 2026, the California Museum Board of Trustees is moving to remove Cesar Chavez, who was inducted into the California Hall of Fame as a member of its inaugural class in 2006, from the roster of inductees. As this is an unprecedented situation for the California Hall of Fame, the Board is immediately establishing a protocol to manage his removal and that of any other inductee should it be necessary going forward. Our hearts go out to the survivors of abusive behavior from this man, whom so many regarded as a hero. We also still wish to recognize the significant progress that the union achieved under his leadership. It is our hope that the legacy of his efforts continues to improve the lives of farm workers, and that the profound contributions to civil rights by Dolores Huerta, a member of the California Hall of Fame’s 7th class, and Larry Itliong, a member of the 14th class, are never forgotten. 

– California Museum Board of Trustees