Standing With Survivors: A Message From CEDC

CEDC stands firmly with survivors. In fearlessly sharing their truth, those who have come forward have given voice to countless others who have endured harm in silence. Survivors deserve to be believed, supported, and honored. The sexual abuse is inexcusable, and we reaffirm our commitment to building communities where every resident, especially women and girls, can live free from violence, exploitation, and fear.

For more than four decades, CEDC’s roots have been intertwined with the lives and struggles of farmworker families across Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Our organization was built from their courage — from generations of workers, organizers, and community leaders who fought for dignity, safety, and justice in the fields and in their homes. Their sacrifices, their voices, and their resilience shaped the foundation on which CEDC stands today. That legacy belongs to them, and it continues to guide our mission.

We stand in unwavering solidarity with Dolores Huerta, Ana Murguia, Debra Rojas, and the Latino/a community, with farmworker families, and with all who continue fighting for the rights, safety, and dignity of our women, our families, and our neighborhoods. At a time when these rights face relentless threats, CEDC remains steadfast in our mission to uplift, protect, and empower the communities we were created to serve.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, we encourage you to reach out for support:

National Domestic Violence Hotline:

·Free and confidential support, 24/7, year-round, in both English and Spanish, and other languages for those impacted by relationship abuse

·Call 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788

CA Civil Rights Department:

·State agency to report workplace sexual harassment or discrimination in English and Spanish

·Call 800-884-1684

Additional resources and an online chat at: https://www.thehotline.org/