Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus releases statement on Cesar Chavez allegations

• Cesar Chavez
• Sexual assault
• Abuse
• Allegations

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus released the following statement in response to the recent allegations of sexual assault and abuse involving the late Cesar Chavez:

“We are deeply disturbed by the allegations of sexual assault and abuse against Cesar Chavez, as brought forward by Dolores Huerta, Debra Rojas and Ana Murguia. The accounts described are appalling. The patterns of coercion and manipulation used against women and girls over many years are unacceptable and deeply troubling. Dismantling this culture of abuse against women is exactly the work we are committed to doing every day. Our message is clear: there is no place in this movement for the abuse, exploitation, or coercion of power.

“These actions do not reflect our values. The core principles of the Latino community are rooted in respect, dignity, justice, advocacy, and conducting ourselves in a manner that honors those who came before us. It is our responsibility to confront the truth and hold individuals accountable.

“Despite these allegations, we continue to honor the labor of farmworkers and the dignity and rights for which they organized. The progress achieved has been collective, built over decades by countless individuals through determination, grit, selflessness and leadership. These values continue to guide many leaders and movements today.

“Our commitment to these movements remains steadfast. That includes protecting women and children, advocating for workers, advancing safer communities, and ensuring that our voices are heard.

“Today and always, we believe survivors and stand with them in our commitment to justice.”

Cervantes measure to protect consumers’ energy backup systems

• Consumer Protection
• Energy backup systems
• Residential batteries

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes is leading a measure to prohibit cities and municipalities from regulating residential energy backup systems’ installation and inspection.

“This measure comes back to consumer protections,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “It is about saving people money and simplifying the installation process for residential batteries.”

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Cervantes pushes for enhanced funding for education

• Higher Education
• Hope Chicago
• Funding

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes spoke about funding to improve underrepresented communities’ postsecondary education options at a rally hosted by Hope Chicago in front of the capitol on Wednesday.

“People in underrepresented communities should have the same chance at future success as people from more privileged backgrounds. But that is not currently the case,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “However, giving more funding to organizations like Hope Chicago brings us closer to realizing that reality.”

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Cervantes speaks on utilities legislation protecting consumers

• Clean Energy Choice Coalition
• Utilities
• Consumer Protection
• Press Conference

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes was joined by the Clean Energy Choice Coalition and his colleagues for a press conference on a proposal that would make utilities more affordable, accessible and environmentally friendly.

“This is an issue from rural Illinois to Chicago,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “Consumer protection is extremely important for us to get in front of. As the energy sources change, we need to make sure that we protect our consumers statewide.”

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