USC to remove or replace campus signs honoring Cesar Chavez

A New York Times investigation revealed allegations of sexual abuse made against the labor leader.

By NICHOLAS CORRAL
March 19, 2026
A plaque memorializing Chavez sits in Founders Park. According to the plaque, Chavez visited USC in 1982, 1985 and 1989.
A plaque memorializing Chavez sits in Founders Park. According to the plaque, Chavez visited USC in 1982, 1985 and 1989. (Nathan Elias / Daily Trojan)

Content warning: This article contains references to sexual assault and violence.

BREAKING: USC will remove or replace campus signs memorializing late labor leader Cesar Chavez, the University wrote in a statement to the Daily Trojan on Thursday.

On Wednesday, the New York Times published a yearslong investigation in which Debra Rojas and Ana Murguía accused Chavez of abusing them when they were minors. Fellow labor leader Dolores Huerta also accused Chavez of raping her.

“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the information that has emerged, and our hearts go out to all of the individuals who have been impacted,” the University wrote.

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A plaque memorializing Chavez sits in Founders Park. According to the plaque, Chavez visited USC in 1982, 1985 and 1989.

Multiple municipalities have moved to rename celebrations honoring Chavez ahead of March 31, Chavez’s birthday and the federal commemorative holiday bearing his name. On Thursday, California lawmakers announced a plan to rename Cesar Chavez Day as Farmworkers Day, honoring the broader labor movement led by Chavez, Huerta and others. 

The University did not provide a timeline for removing or replacing the signs. As of Thursday afternoon, the plaque in Founders Park remains.

If you are in need of support, here are some resources you can contact: USC Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention and Services: Located at Engemann Student Health Center Suite 356. Individuals can call (213)-740-9355 and request to speak with an advocate or counselor. Services are confidential. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): A free, confidential hotline that is active 24/7. Individuals can call (800)-656-4673.

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