CALIFORNIA — October 28, 2026. Dolores Huerta, the pioneering labor organizer and civil rights leader whose work helped transform conditions for American farmworkers, died Wednesday at age 96. Her family confirmed her death in a statement released through the Dolores Huerta Foundation, and the governor of California ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in her honor.
Huerta was a co-founder of the organization that became the United Farm Workers, a central figure in historic boycotts and organizing campaigns, and a prominent advocate for women, agricultural workers and immigrant communities. She is widely associated with the rallying words “Sí, se puede”.
Governor orders a statewide tribute
Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom issued an official statement on October 28 recognizing Huerta’s role in the farmworker movement and her work for civil rights and gender equity. The Governor’s Office said California flags would be lowered in her honor.
The announcement is an official state action. It is not an indication that public schools, state offices or the stock market are closed; the proclamation does not itself create a new public holiday.
Her influence reaches across California
Huerta helped build the farmworker organizing movement with César Chávez, advocated for changes in working conditions in agricultural regions and supported the boycott campaigns associated with Delano in Kern County and the broader Central Valley. Her organizing work reached employers, consumers and policymakers across California and the United States.
Born in 1930, Huerta was a teacher before becoming a full-time organizer. Her advocacy extended far beyond labor contracts, including voter participation and equal rights. She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012.
What is confirmed about her passing
Reporting by the Associated Press, based on the family’s announcement, confirms that Huerta died Wednesday at home. News of her death was independently reported by major California outlets. Any future details about public commemorations should be taken from her family or foundation rather than social-media speculation.
Primary source: Governor of California, October 28 statement and flag order. Family confirmation: Associated Press report distributed by KQED.
California58 statewide reporting: This is one canonical statewide article. Local farmworker communities and county newspapers may link to it with their own genuine reactions or documented local tributes, rather than posting 58 duplicate death notices.
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