Fresno State plans to remove a statue of late civil rights activist César Chávez following sexual abuse allegations and a testimonial from United Farm Workers co-founder Dolores Huerta.

“In light of the seriousness of the current revelations, as a first step, we are covering the statue while we determine appropriate next steps for its removal,” Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval, president of Freno State, said in a statement to students.

The New York Times led a multi-year investigation into Chávez, unveiling that he raped underage girls. Following the report, Huerta shared that Chávez had raped her twice in the 1960s, resulting in two pregnancies.

“The first time I was manipulated and pressured into having sex with him, and I didn’t feel I could say no because he was someone that I admired, my boss, and the leader of the movement I had already devoted years of my life to. The second time I was forced, against my will, and in an environment where I felt trapped,” Huerta said in a statement.

The university unveiled the statue in 1996, honoring the “spirit of peaceful assembly and broader labor movement that has shaped this region.”

Now, the university has covered it in a black sheet while it works with the Peace Garden committee.

“Our values are grounded in dignity, respect, and care for one another,” Jiménez-Sandoval said. “When we become aware of reports of such a serious nature, we must acknowledge their weight and hold space for those who have been harmed.”

The UFW led the charge to cancel César Chávez day celebrations, calling the allegations “disturbing” and “incompatible with our organization’s values.”

Following their lead, Fresno Unified School District announced Tuesday that it will not participate in a celebration planned for Wednesday.

Community Reacts to Fresno State Decision

There has been a mixed reaction from community members on social media with some praising the university’s decision, while others questioned the move.

“For sure, down with all abusers,” said a Facebook user identified as Alicia Rodriguez.

Others believed Fresno State’s decision was made in haste.

“It was an allegation and two days passed and they are already taking down his statues and changing the street names?” Facebook commenter Mark Culy wrote. “He did soo much for people’s rights … We don’t have to be so quick to just forget him…”

And several pointed out that Chávez is unable to “give his side” due to passing away in 1993 with many claiming race is playing a part in the quick condemnation of the labor icon.