The artist behind a César Chávez mural in Watts erased the face of Chávez and began the process of replacing it with a portrait of Dolores Huerta.
The decision to re-do the mural came after Huerta shared that she was sexually assaulted by Chávez with whom she founded the United Farm Workers. A New York Times investigation also revealed the labor activist sexually assaulted two women when they were teenagers.
Mister Alek behind the mural said it felt necessary to erase Chávez from the mural he created in 2021 on Wilmington Avenue and 103rd Street amid the horrific allegations.
“It was necessary to not have people that don’t necessarily represent us,” he said.
By Thursday afternoon, the muralist completely removed Chávez from the mural, which also features Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., by putting white paint over it. He then began the restoration process by adding a portrait of Huerta.
Mister Alek chose the image of Huerta holding a megaphone, which he said represents her relentless work over the years.
“(She is) someone always speaking loud and standing up for the community, giving those that don’t have a voice,” the muralist described. “It has such a strong expression in her face.”
Learning that Huerta keep silent about her pain and trauma for many decades, Mister Alek said it felt more important than ever to “honor her as she deserves.”
“This is our best way that I know how. She’s known for her activism, and she’s a leader,” the muralist said, adding he felt grateful to be able to paint the leaders of his community.