Last week, our community was confronted with deeply painful revelations regarding César Chávez, a figure long held as a symbol of Latino civil rights, and the courageous truth shared by Dolores Huerta and other women. 

We begin by centering what matters the most: survivors, truth, and dignity. 

At LIDERAMOS, we are rooted in a leadership model that honors the fullness of our humanity, our history, our culture, and our responsibility to one another. This moment calls us not only to reflect, but to act with integrity. 

We stand in solidarity with all survivors, including Dolores Huerta, who have carried pain in silence, and with those who may not yet feel safe sharing their stories. We recognize the immense courage it takes to speak truth, especially when the truth challenges deeply held narratives within our own community. No movement, no legacy, and no leader should come at the cost of someone’s safety, dignity, or voice. 

At LIDERAMOS, this is what transformative leadership requires. Our work has always been about more than leadership development; it is about building a culturally grounded movement rooted in community and collective care, as well as accountability and integrity. 

This moment reinforces why organizations like LIDERAMOS and so many others across the country are essential right now. And as an organization, we are committed to cultivating leaders who do not replicate harm but instead create a space of belonging where people can speak their truth and lead with integrity. 

To our comunidad:  

You do not have to carry harm in silence.

You do not have to protect systems or individuals at the expense of your well-being.

Your voice matters. Your story matters. YOU matter. 

As we approach moments of remembrance and celebration in our history, we invite our community to do so with honesty, reflection, and care. This is not about erasing our past, it is about telling OUR truth so we can collectively build a more just future.

We also recognize the importance of coming together in community during moments like this to process in a safe community. 

LIDERAMOS invites you to join us for a virtual círculo to reflect, process, and hold space together on April 3rd, 2026. 

At LIDERAMOS, we remain committed to growing leaders who are not only powerful but also grounded, accountable, and rooted in love for our people. 

Con respeto y en comunidad, 

Elsa Bañuelos-Lindsay