The depiction of Cesar Chavez was removed from the “Libertad” mural in Barrett Park, Pilsen, after sexual abuse allegations against the labor activist came to light, according to a March 23 statement. The section of the mural that previously featured Chavez was painted over by Friday and replaced with a repeating pattern design by Sunday.
The change follows calls from community members and leaders to rescind local honors for Chavez following an investigation published last week. The New York Times reported that several women, including Dolores Huerta, accused Chavez of grooming, rape, and sexual abuse during his time as a prominent figure in the farmers’ rights movement. This has prompted organizations nationwide to reconsider namesakes dedicated to him.
Chavez’s influence is visible throughout Chicago with plaques, murals, and buildings named after him. These include a post office in Pilsen and a school in Back of the Yards. The “Libertad” mural itself was created in 2008 by teens participating in an After School Matters class who chose which activists and artists would be depicted. It was restored last year by artists including Ruth Garcia.
A spokesperson for Chicago Public Schools said school leaders at Cesar E. Chavez Multicultural Academic Center have started gathering feedback on whether the school should be renamed. Jesse Cisneros, a graduate of the school and civic fellow volunteer for Increase The Peace, said: “Having walked through a building that has idolized a person as much as him and knowing these current allegations now is very upsetting, to say the least, and traumatizing for some.”
Efforts are also underway to rename other public sites bearing Chavez’s name. Representative Jesús “Chuy” García said: “Considering the horrifying allegations that have come to light, my team and I are beginning the legislative process to rename the Cesar Chavez Post Office in my district. We cannot continue honoring his name, out of respect for those he has harmed, including of course Dolores Huerta, who I consider my friend.”
Artist Ruth Garcia and park district officials have not yet responded publicly about changes made to the mural.
