UPDATE: The César Chávez statue has now been removed from the ground and placed onto a trailer. Workers have begun placing wooden framing around the statue, while caution tape protects the area. This is a developing story; check back for more updates.

The University began removing an on-campus statue of labor rights activist César Chávez Thursday morning, according to a University spokesperson.

The bronze statue, located between Battle Hall and the West Mall Office Building, was created by artist Pablo Eduardo in 2007. In a March investigation, The New York Times reported Chávez had sexually abused women and girls close to him and within the labor movement, including activist Dolores Huerta. 

A University spokesperson confirmed a crew is currently removing the statue and relocating it into a collection at the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, located on campus near the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum; however, the spokesperson did not provide a reason. 

In a March statement, City Council member Zohaib “Zo” Qadri, who represents UT and West Campus, wrote that abusers should be held accountable. Across the country, leaders and activists have called for spaces and art honoring Chávez to be renamed or removed.

“Austin should be a place where our public spaces reflect our shared commitment to dignity, safety, and justice,” Qadri wrote. “I support my colleagues in calling for the renaming of César Chávez Street and believe this should move forward through a thoughtful, community-driven process.”