Dolores Huerta, who turned ‘Sí, se puede’ into a rallying cry for generations, dies at 96

Dolores Huerta, a prominent labor leader, civil rights icon, and feminist activist who coined the rallying cry "Sí, se puede!" has passed away at the age of 96. Huerta's family announced that she died at home on Wednesday, stating that many around the world would share their grief over her loss. Despite her busy schedule in the latter years of her life, Huerta marched in protests and spoke on behalf of her foundation in Bakersfield, California, advocating for race, poverty, LGBTQ+ rights, and women's rights.

Huerta's resolve established her as one of the nation's most influential labor leaders, civil rights icons, and feminist activists. Her powerful three-word Spanish-language slogan, "Sí, se puede!" ("Yes, it can be done"), conveyed the belief that people who take action can affect change. Her decades-long efforts earned her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor.

Born in Dawson, New Mexico, in 1930, Huerta grew up in a diverse community that included Mexican, Filipino, African American, Japanese, and Chinese families. Her mother owned a restaurant and hotel, instilling her with values of independence, compassion, and activism. Huerta became a teacher in the agricultural San Joaquin Valley, where she witnessed the hardships faced by her students and decided to dedicate her life to organizing farmworkers.

Her collaboration with César Chavez led to the founding of the National Farm Workers Association in 1962, which later became the United Farm Workers of America. Together, they fought for better working conditions, health benefits, and collective bargaining agreements for farmworkers, culminating in the five-year Delano Grape Strike. Huerta's leadership and negotiation skills played a crucial role in securing these agreements and establishing the first health and benefit plans for farmworkers.

Throughout her career, Huerta faced numerous challenges, including arrests for union demonstrations and a severe injury during a protest in 1988. She continued to organize and advocate for women's rights, Latinas in politics, and various social causes even after César Chavez's death. Her courage and dedication to the cause inspired countless individuals, making her a role model for generations.