Cesar Chavez Day activities canceled after abuse allegations surface

YUMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KYMA) - There are shocking allegations coming to light against local civil rights leader Cesar Chavez.

Several Cesar Chavez Day activities are being canceled this year after allegations that Chavez engaged in inappropriate behavior with women and minors during his time as President of the United Farm Workers (UFW) of America.

The Cesar Chavez Foundation released a statement Tuesday saying they are deeply shocked and saddened by the allegations.

The UFW also released a statement saying it has not received direct reports, and does not have any first-hand knowledge of the allegation.

In the statement, they said they will not take part in any Cesar Chavez Day activities on March 31.

Chavez helped create and lead the Farmworker's Movement, and had a strong local ties to the Yuma County area.