Farm work is personal for many people in the state of California, where nearly three-quarters of America's fruits and nuts are grown.
That's why, when sexual abuse allegations against famed farmworker union activist Cesar Chavez came to light in March, it sent shockwaves throughout the state.
As the daughter and granddaughter of farmworkers, this is deeply personal, state senator Suzette Martinez Valladares said during a meeting to discuss removing Chavez's name from streets, parks and schools - as well as renaming Cesar Chavez Day to Farmworkers Day.
The legacy of farmworkers belongs to families like mine across California - not to any one individual, Valladares said, while sharing stories of how her family worked in the fields picking crops under the hot sun.
Chavez helped lead a major strike against Delano grape growers in the 1960s, advocating for better wages and working conditions, adopting the mantra si, se puede which resonated widely among activists and politicians, including President Obama during his campaigns.
However, his legacy has taken a sharp turn following allegations of sexual misconduct against him, particularly from civil rights leader Dolores Huerta, who claimed he raped her decades ago.
The New York Times investigation into these allegations included testimonies from two other women, daughters of farmworkers, who stated that Chavez molested them in the 1970s.
In response to the allegations, California lawmakers voted unanimously to rename the state holiday Farmworkers Day and discussions around the removal of Chavez's name from numerous public institutions are ongoing.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed deep sorrow regarding the allegations, acknowledging Chavez's significant role in the labour movement while recognizing that her memories of him are now tainted.
Artists honoring Chavez are grappling with these changes, with some choosing to transform murals honoring him to recognize Huerta instead, while others advocate for an updated portrayal that reflects the contributions of all farmworkers, including those from diverse backgrounds.
