GALEO is deeply saddened and disillusioned to learn of the recent allegations of sexual abuse of women and minors by Cesar Chavez. This news weighs heavily on our hearts, as many in our community had looked up to him as a leader and role model. The accounts and statements of the survivors who have come forward are heartbreaking and truly disturbing.

GALEO stands with survivors and condemns all forms of sexual violence. Using one’s position of power or influence to coerce, control, and abuse others with less power is reprehensible and must not be tolerated.

In light of these events, we have canceled this year’s Leyendas Essay Contest and removed any mention of Cesar Chavez from our Leyendas Essay Contest going forward. In recent years, GALEO has broadened the scope of Leyendas to include other farmworker leaders and unsung heroes from the state of Georgia. We will continue to uplift the voices of our community members around the state and promote a vision of leadership that prioritizes empathy, equity, and power with others, not over them.

We know that this news may bring up a lot of difficult feelings. If you have experienced sexual assault, there is help available.

National Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by RAINN

• Offers free, confidential, 24/7/365 support in English and Spanish
• Call 1-800-656- HOPE (4673)/Text “HOPE” to 64673
• Online chat and helpful resources available on the RAINN website at: www.rainn.org