PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release - April 8, 2025
Contact:
Grace Medrano, (213) 503-0883, grecia.medrano@lausd.net
Los Angeles Unified Passes Resolution Honoring Civil Rights Icon Dolores Huerta
New resolution designates April 10 Dolores Huerta Day to promote student civic engagement.
Los Angeles, CA – In a decision to honor Dolores Huerta and her lifetime advocacy for workers’ rights, educational equity, and civic engagement, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Education unanimously passed Resolution 063-24/25, Honoring Dolores Huerta: Advancing Educational Equity, Civic Engagement, and Leadership for the Next Generation. The District reaffirmed its commitment to equity by integrating Huerta’s story into school curricula and organizing community events to honor her message: ¡Sí Se Puede! — Yes, We Can!
“Dolores Huerta has shown us that civic participation and social justice begin in our schools and neighborhoods,” said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. “We are proud to uplift her legacy and ensure our students—especially young women of color—are inspired to lead.”
“We are proud to honor April 10 as a day of recognition for the legendary community organizer Dolores Huerta, whose lifelong dedication to workers’ rights, social justice, and civic engagement has inspired generations,” said Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho. “As a school district committed to fostering civic awareness and participation, we are dedicated to ensuring that her powerful legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of our schools.”
“Learning about Dolores Huerta's extraordinary legacy and her commitment to building collective power to achieve justice and equality has always been important, but at this moment in time, it is essential,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson.
“Dolores Huerta is an icon. A leader in all ways, a champion for civil rights, women’s rights, worker’s rights, a champion for humans. I am proud to support the resolution honoring the many achievements and accomplishments of this social justice warrior,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill.
“I’m proud to honor Dolores Huerta and her lifelong fight for justice, equity, and workers’ rights. By integrating her story into our classrooms, we’re helping students see themselves as the young changemakers and future leaders our country needs,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin.
“Proud to celebrate and honor Dolores Huerta’s life and legacy this April 10th,” said Board Member Karla Griego. “As a former teacher and lifelong advocate, her dedication to social justice has profoundly impacted the lives of countless students across California by fighting tirelessly for their rights to a quality education, and empowering young people to become agents of change in their communities.”
“Throughout her life, Dolores Huerta has fought for social justice and the rights of the marginalized, exploited, and forgotten.” said Board Member Kelly Gonez. “I’m proud to celebrate April 10 as Dolores Huerta day. She is an inspiration and example for all of us of the power of collective action and the continued fight for equity and justice.”
“For decades of her life and a few minutes today, Dolores Huerta championed the rights of students, women, workers, and so many others who deserve the promise of an educated democratic society,” Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin said. “Her tireless advocacy has empowered generations and in her living legacy, LA Unified will continue to ensure our students are inspired to lead the world towards justice.”
By honoring Dolores Huerta and integrating her story into school curricula, Los Angeles Unified reaffirms its commitment to eliminating opportunity gaps and uplift historically underserved communities, aligning with the 2022-26 Strategic Plan.
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