Dolores Huerta, legendary labor activist, dies at 96

Dolores Huerta, a historic figure in the American labor movement and a tireless advocate for civil rights, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the age of 96. Her death was confirmed by her family via social media, who requested privacy while announcing that they would share plans for honoring her legacy. While her family did not disclose the cause of death, American media reports indicate that she had been battling cancer.

Over the course of more than six decades, Huerta dedicated her life to improving the lives of agricultural workers, most of whom were immigrants. She was instrumental in securing collective bargaining agreements, raising wages, and improving safety and health conditions in fields across the United States. She is widely credited with inventing the iconic slogan "¡Sí, se puede!," which later served as the inspiration for Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign slogan, "Yes, we can.

In addition to her work for farm workers, Huerta was a prominent activist for women’s rights, minority equality, and broad social justice. Her career was marked by her relentless commitment to the marginalized, and she was previously honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her enduring impact on American society.