Statement from Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda CDC, on the Passing of Dolores Huerta

On behalf of Hacienda CDC, I extend our deepest condolences to Dolores Huerta’s family, loved ones, and the generations of organizers and community members whose lives she touched.

Dolores devoted her life to the dignity of working people. Through decades of tireless organizing, she challenged injustice and helped farmworkers, women, and Latino communities recognize their power to create change. Her courage also extended to speaking painful truths about her own life. In doing so, she affirmed that every person’s dignity matters, including within the movements and institutions we hold dear.

We were honored to welcome Dolores as our keynote speaker at La Gala this time last year where she brought nearly 500 people to their feet to chant, “Sí, se puede”. Our connection to her legacy also lives in Dolores, our affordable housing community named in her honor. That name carries a responsibility: to help build a future where families have a stable home, opportunities to thrive, and a voice in the decisions that shape their lives.

As a Latino-led organization, we carry her example into our work and our hopes for the communities we serve. Dolores showed what becomes possible when people organize, stand together, and refuse to give up on one another.

Today, we mourn with her family and all who loved her. We honor her by continuing the work she dedicated her life to: advancing justice, dignity, and opportunity for generations to come.

Gracias, Dolores. Sí, se puede.

Ernesto.