Dartmouth Research Sparks New York Times Probe into Cesar Chavez

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — In a seismic revelation on March 18, The New York Times unveiled an in-depth investigation concerning sexual assault allegations against Cesar Chavez, a revered figure in the labor movement. This exposé has sparked national discourse, shedding light on long-buried truths and empowering victims to speak openly, including renowned activist Dolores Huerta.

The investigation’s inception can be attributed to Dartmouth Professor Matthew Garcia, whose meticulous research unearthed these allegations. “I was astounded by my findings as a historian, but I felt an obligation to bring them to light,” Garcia remarked. His commitment to uncovering the truth led him to inform author Manny Fernandez, setting the stage for an exhaustive, years-long inquiry into Chavez’s past.

Professor Garcia, a proud LatinX scholar, author, and historian, has consistently celebrated his cultural heritage. His role in this investigation highlights his dedication to revealing complex narratives within historical icons and ensuring that untold stories emerge from the shadows.

Behind the story is Dartmouth Professor Matthew Garcia, who tipped off author Manny Fernandez, leading to a years-long investigation into Chavez.

Garcia is a LatinX professor, author and historian who has always been proud of where he comes from.

“My grandparents were farm workers who traveled up and down California in the ’30s and ’40s, and I know how important farm worker justice is,” said Garcia.

His curiosity and interest led him down a long, heavy path that revealed a dark side of labor leader Cesar Chavez.

“And then I went to the archive in Detroit, where the UNF papers are, and saw the ’70s and the relationship to Synanon and heard the tapes of them tearing down Dolores and tearing down one another, and I realized something had not been revealed,” Garcia said.

The more he looked, the more he found, including sexual abuse allegations against Chavez.

Accusations, Garcia says, he did not have enough evidence to reveal himself.

He made some calls and ultimately connected with New York Times editor-at-large Manny Fernandez, who got to work.

Five years later, the story was published by Fernandez and Sara Hurtes.

“It’s another chapter that no one can write but them, and I am just so in awe of them,” Garcia said.

A powerful piece that revealed the gut-wrenching claims of many women who stayed quiet in fear.

Garcia has felt a mix of emotions, highs and lows, taking a moment to embrace all that’s happened.

“I feel like now justice has begun to be served. I don’t think it’s worked through it yet, and I was also feeling heavy because I am committed to the history,” said Garcia.

Author Fernandez is a Fresno State alum who has given Garcia credit and admiration for his work, which has led to today’s change.

“He corrected me in a text and said, ‘Matt, you did this, you had the courage. You spoke up when other people did not. You did this,’” Garcia said.

Garcia is hopeful that communities will continue to push the movement forward and stand by farm workers.