LOS ANGELES -- This week marks the 96th birthday of activist Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers (UFW) in the 1960s. In honor of her enduring influence, the Chicano cultural center Plaza de la Raza has launched the exhibition titled DOLORES, highlighting her remarkable legacy.
As the exhibition opened on March 19, the New York Times released a report detailing troubling allegations against UFW co-founder Cesar Chavez, which has prompted a reevaluation of his legacy. This has led to significant changes in public perception, with Chavez's name being removed from various civic spaces. In East Los Angeles, there are calls to rename a road in his honor to Dolores Huerta Avenue.
DOLORES showcases Huerta's accomplishments through various artistic mediums, including screenprinting, photography, and painting. Notable works include a vibrant silkscreen print by Barbara Carrasco featuring Huerta adorned with the UFW's Aztec eagle logo, symbolizing courage and pride in Chicano and Latinx culture. Additionally, Vincent Valdez's ink drawing portrays Huerta with a resolute gaze, embodying her unwavering spirit.
The exhibition goes beyond portraits, delving into themes of migrant labor and contemporary Chicanx and Latinx culture. Artworks like Jean Cornwell's post-impressionist painting "Earth Mothers" (2016) and Daniel Gibson's "Strawberry Mom" (2026) highlight both the challenges and the resilience of workers. Arthur Carrillo's serene depictions of agricultural staples, alongside Paige Emery's abstract harvest scene, further celebrate the cultural significance of produce.
Among the most poignant pieces are those reflecting daily life in Los Angeles. Jonah Elijah's "Paletero Man" (2025) and Nao Bustamante's "Paletero" (2025) capture the essence of community and labor, while Karla Diaz's "Los Desaparecidos" (2023) emphasizes the everyday struggles faced by families, including the specter of deportation.
The paletero's business is a legacy of the UFW's fight for better conditions, illustrating how Huerta's advocacy has paved the way for everyday rights and joys, from education to family time. The exhibition, curated by Glenna Avila and Harley Cortez, runs through April 12 at the Plaza de la Raza Boathouse Gallery in Lincoln Park, Los Angeles.
As we reflect on Huerta's contributions, her story serves as a beacon for future generations, inspiring ongoing advocacy for social justice and community empowerment.