On May 5, the Council approved honorarily renaming a portion of 500 South between State Street and 700 East in honor of Dolores Huerta as “Dolores Huerta Boulevard.”
Dolores Huerta spent decades organizing on behalf of farm workers, and her advocacy for fair wages and dignified working conditions has left a lasting mark on labor rights in the United States. This honorary naming will recognize her contributions and their significance to our community.
Please note that 500 South, west of State Street, is owned by the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT). This means the State determines when honorary street names can be added to this road or any other UDOT road. Read the State Code Related to Honorary Street Naming.
Dolores Huerta
Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers (UFW), is a well-known leader for workers’ rights and civil rights in America. She spent many years standing up for farm workers, who often have some of the hardest jobs and the fewest protections. Her work helped change laws and how people think about workers’ rights. She also coined the slogan “Sí, se puede” (Yes, we can), which became a rallying cry for labor, immigration, and civil rights movements for generations.
The Process
The city does not have a specific process for honorary street naming. Most of the time, the Council follows the same steps used for naming major city assets. These steps include gathering public feedback, holding a public hearing, and then voting. Names are also screened to avoid confusion, controversy, or inappropriate references.
Meeting Recaps
May 5 Public Hearing & Council Vote
During the formal meeting, the Council unanimously approved honorarily renaming the city-owned section of 500 South between State Street and 700 East as “Dolores Huerta Blvd.” in honor of labor activist Dolores Huerta.
Watch the Public Hearing and Vote
March 24 Informational Briefing
At the briefing, Council staff outlined the background and standard process for honorary street renaming. The Council discussed naming options, past honorary naming recognizing civil rights leaders, and emphasized that the process should be deliberative.
Resources
- Read the Adopted Resolution
- Asset Naming Policy
- Dolores Huerta Foundation
- Council Statement on Cesar Chavez Allegations
Tags: Dolores Huerta, Salt Lake City Council