PHOENIX — Councilwoman Betty Guardado paid tribute to Dolores Huerta following her passing, honoring the labor leader’s commitment to working families and her influence on generations of Latina organizers.
In a statement, Guardado described Huerta’s legacy as deeply personal to her own experience as a Latina and labor leader.
“My heart is heavy today as we mourn Dolores Huerta, a woman whose courage changed our country and whose example means so much to me as a Latina and a labor leader,” Guardado said.
Recognizing the Families Behind the Fight
Guardado emphasized Huerta’s understanding that campaigns for better wages and safer workplaces were rooted in the everyday needs of families.
“Dolores understood what every organizer learns: behind every fight for a fair wage is a family trying to put food on the table. Behind every demand for safer working conditions is someone who deserves to come home to their children,” she said.
Guardado said Huerta recognized the humanity of workers whose contributions frequently went overlooked and helped them organize to demand better treatment.
An Example for Latina Leaders
The councilwoman also highlighted Huerta’s role in helping Latinas recognize their power in unions, community organizing and public service.
“She showed us that our voices belong at the bargaining table, on the picket line, and in the halls of government,” Guardado said. “She helped generations of women see themselves as leaders, including those who had spent their lives being told to step aside.”
Guardado extended her condolences to Huerta’s family, fellow organizers and the workers inspired by her determination.
A Call to Continue Organizing
Guardado urged those honoring Huerta to carry her example forward through action, including supporting workers and developing new leaders.
“We owe Dolores more than our admiration. We owe her our continued commitment to the work: standing beside workers, developing new leaders, and showing up for one another even when the fight is hard,” she said.
She closed her tribute with a promise to continue that work.
“Rest in power, Dolores. Thank you for giving so much of your life so that others could live with dignity. We will carry your example with us, and we will keep organizing.”
Her final words were: “Sí se puede.”
Guardado represents Phoenix City Council District 5, serving communities in West Phoenix. More information about Huerta’s life and work is available through the Dolores Huerta Foundation.
For information about Guardado’s statement, contact Zul Lopez at zul.lopez@phoenix.gov.
Source: Statement provided by Councilwoman Betty Guardado’s office.
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