On April 10, Dolores Huerta had her milestone 96th birthday, a day one would expect to be celebratory. But March 17th is also a memorable day in the life of a crusader for social justice advocacy on behalf of school children in low-income neighborhoods, the farmworkers’ movement of the 1960s, and the rights of immigrants across the country. Dolores Huerta, who coined the phrase Sí Se Puede, revealed a long-held secret.

As with many women in the workplace, Dolores encountered sexual abuse. Along with several other women, minors at the time. Dolores revealed the sexual assaults of the man long revered as the leader of the farmworkers’ movement. When asked why she waited 60 plus years to come forth, she reported that she did not want to harm the movement. Her selflessness is admirable, but similar to other women, she silenced herself. Ironically, her name did not have the same recognition as the man who assaulted her, though she was always on the front lines with him.

Continuing the #metoo Movement
In 2007, Tarana Burke began the #metoo Movement on behalf of Black women in the South and other parts of the country, experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace. In 2017, the “Times Up” movement was initiated by women in the media and cinema; simultaneously, they filed lawsuits against Hollywood director Harvey Weinstein and other men who perpetuated sexual misconduct as they tried to advance their careers. Also in 2017, the “Silence Breakers” were recognized by Time magazine as the Person of the Year. (https://www.arredondoadvisorygroup.com/2017/12/13/tarana-burke-founder-metoo-movement-empathy-empowerment/).

People have questioned Dolores Huerta and other women about why they waited to report the sexual abuse. I hear this question as one that seems to blame the woman who was victimized. It’s as though she needs to explain herself.

This is why the #metoo Movement is still needed. Psychological safety is not for one person to assume; the workplace also holds responsibility. Women need to feel the solidarity and support of other women and men in work settings. Additionally, women need to know that by speaking up, they are showing courage and encouraging others not to remain silent.

Possible Resources
Workplaces may have resources such as the Ombuds Office, employee resource groups, or other trusted offices. One reminder is to document the incident and to keep it in a safe place. Another suggestion is to share the experience with a trusted friend or colleague. Finally, as women, we have to remind ourselves that self-care is an act of love and kindness to ourselves.