EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 A mural of Cesar Chavez at Ascarate Park has become a backdrop for a growing debate in El Paso, as residents weigh how the city should remember the labor organizer amid new allegations of sexual abuse.<\/p>\n
For decades, Chavez has been recognized for his work advocating for farmworkers.<\/p>\n
But a New York Times investigation reported new allegations that Chavez allegedly sexually abused multiple women, including activist Dolores Huerta and at least two teenage girls, decades ago. <\/p>\n
The allegations, brought forward by civil rights leader Huerta, are prompting a closer look at Chavez\u2019s legacy and how he is honored.<\/p>\n
Opinions in the community are divided. <\/p>\n
Some residents said the allegations should lead to changes in how Chavez is recognized.<\/p>\n
\u201cI mean, I honestly do think that it’s an opportunity for the city and for the citizens to set a standard,\u201d Marissa Rojero said. \u201cAnd say, we are not going to allow people who behave in this way, even if this was something that happened in the past.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rojero also said, \u201cI think that it’s important, like I said, especially with all the things happening today, that we say, no, we’re not going to continue to allow that to normalize this.\u201d<\/p>\n
Others said the allegations could affect how the community views Chavez\u2019s contributions.<\/p>\n
Destiny Venecia reports on Community divided over whether Cesar Chavez\u2019s legacy should be reconsidered (Credit: KFOX14)<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
RELATED: El Paso renames C\u00e9sar Ch\u00e1vez Day as Community & Labor Heritage Day city holiday<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cWell, I heard he’s done a lot for the Mexican community in Hispanics and all that, but now that things like that are coming out about him, that takes a big toll on the community,\u201d Leslie Delgado said.<\/p>\n Some residents said Chavez\u2019s work and the allegations should be considered separately, while still acknowledging the impact of the new claims.<\/p>\n \u201cThe things that he did allegedly should probably be separated from the two,\u201d Mario said. He added, \u201cBecause he was a sign, you know, like, so he was a sign for freedom over there. But now with that coming out, it kind of switches it a little.\u201d<\/p>\n Rojero said she believes accountability should be central to the conversation.<\/p>\n \u201cI think that it’s so important that we hold him accountable for these allegations and the fact that, you know, he may have also been a contributor to abuse and to hurt in the world,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n As the conversations continue, some leaders are calling for changes, while some members of the public say the focus should stay on the labor movement Chavez helped build.<\/p>\n RELATED: El Paso leaders react to sexual abuse allegations against labor rights icon Cesar Chavez<\/a><\/p>\n