President Trump's recent announcement regarding the deportation of immigrants to Guantánamo Bay has stirred conversations across various sectors. Concurrently, a notable development occurred in upstate New York's apple orchards where immigrant farmworkers signed the first United Farm Workers (UFW) union contract in the state. This contract extends protections to approximately 150 workers, regardless of their origin or legal status, marking a new chapter for the legendary California-based union.
UFW organizer Gabriella Szpunt emphasized, "It doesn't matter if they crossed through the desert or if they came through a guest worker program. At the end of the day, they're all looking for the same thing: something better for their families." The contract faced legal challenges from farm groups questioning the rights of guest workers to unionize, but the court upheld these rights, setting a precedent amid growing numbers of H-2A visa workers.
UFW's expansion includes eight additional contracts in New York, reflecting a broader organizing push despite an anti-immigrant stance in Washington, D.C. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem launched a campaign targeting immigrants, and recent ICE actions highlight ongoing challenges for farmworker activists.
The UFW's efforts align with historical movements led by founders like Cesar Chavez, though unionization rates have declined across industries. Agricultural workers, often lacking legal work authorization, face unique barriers to organizing. New York recently extended protections to farmworkers, prompting a surge in organizing activities.
UFW's focus in New York's apple orchards, particularly at Cahoon Farms, involved educating workers about new legal protections. The organizing process faced delays due to a lawsuit challenging guest worker union rights, but the state prevailed, affirming these rights. The certified UFW contract includes wage increases, bonuses, and provisions for job security.
Armando Elenes of UFW stated, "That was important because we believe that every worker, no matter what your status is, should have the right to organize." The union's efforts continue across New York farms, with organizers navigating increased fears among workers post-Trump election.
Valdez from Food Chain Workers Alliance noted that legal protections are critical, but farmworkers have long organized through various means. Griffiths, a Jamaican worker at Cahoon, expressed empowerment from the union, emphasizing respect over monetary gains. The ongoing organizing efforts aim to provide farmworkers with a model that suits their needs.
Source: Civil Eats