In Loving Memory: Dolores Huerta
California’s horizon feels different today. With the passing of Dolores Huerta, we have lost a mountain of a woman whose vision of justice left an indelible mark on our world.
Dolores believed in the power of people to transform their communities and build a future rooted in dignity, justice, and shared opportunity. She devoted her life to that vision, organizing alongside generations of workers, women, and families to build collective power and change the course of history.
I grew up in Peru in a matriarchy, surrounded by strong women who shaped my understanding of family, community, and leadership. In many ways, Dolores was the matriarch of California’s progressive movements. Her presence has been a constant throughout so much of my own life.
Dolores grew up in Stockton, where I spent many of my formative years. She attended Delta College when it was still part of the University of the Pacific, my alma mater. When I was in college, I tutored students at the Stockton elementary school named in her honor. When I was starting out in politics, she was a force in the Central Valley, one of the progressive leaders we looked to for guidance on organizing and mobilizing our communities.
Dolores knew that the strength of a movement lives in its people. Her life’s work is woven into the history of California and into the lives of countless families whose futures are different because of her courage and conviction.
She also knew how to celebrate life. She loved good wine, and she loved the poetry of Pablo Neruda. Her favorite Neruda quote happens to be mine, too:
“Podrán cortar todas las flores, pero no podrán detener la primavera.”
“They can cut all the flowers, but they can’t hold back the spring.”
There is grief in saying goodbye to Dolores, but there is also so much joy and gratitude in celebrating 96 years of a life so fiercely and fully lived. What a blessing to have shared this world with her.
Thank you, Dolores, for all you gave us. We will carry your spirit and your commitment to justice forward.
¡Sí, se puede!
