Supporting Migrant Workers: The Backbone of U.S. Agriculture

As a US and local island farmer, I see firsthand the immense contributions that migrant workers bring to the agriculture industry. Without their hard work, dedication, and expertise, countless food producers across the country would struggle to function. Migrant workers are not just employees; they are the backbone of our agricultural system, ensuring that food makes its way from the fields to our tables. Here are some key facts that highlight their critical role:

1. They Are the Majority of the Workforce
Did you know that immigrant farmworkers make up about 73% of all agricultural workers in the United States? These individuals work tirelessly, often in harsh conditions, to plant, tend, and harvest the crops we depend on daily. Their presence is not just beneficial; it’s essential to the survival of farms like mine.

2.  An Aging Workforce
The average age of foreign-born agricultural workers is 41.6 years. The average age of the US farmer is in the 70s. This highlights an aging workforce in our sector, and it’s a stark reminder that we need to invest in attracting and retaining new generations of workers to sustain the future of farming.

3. Education and Hard Work
Despite facing challenges, many migrant workers excel with limited resources. Among undocumented agricultural workers, 73% have less than a high school education, yet they contribute immensely to the agricultural output of this country. Their determination and resilience inspire me as a farmer.

4. This is Wasting funds to deport ppl like the way it’s currently happening.
These deportation flights cost about $800,000 with an average of 80 ppl on a plane. 

5. They are not pulling criminals off the streets.
They’re going into schools, churches, workplaces and those commuting to arrest people. 

6. Why This Matters to Farmers Like Me
Migrant workers aren’t just numbers or statistics; they are real people with families, dreams, and aspirations. And in the islands, often escaping harsh conditions in their home countries. As small and big farmers, we depend on their skills, dedication, and work ethic to produce the fruits, vegetables, and other crops that feed our community. They actually show up for the work. And even come back the next day. 

Yet, the challenges they face are significant—from legal uncertainties to harsh working conditions. I believe we owe it to them to advocate for fair treatment, better policies, and a path to stability. Supporting migrant workers isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s necessary for the sustainability of agriculture in this country. 

When we support migrant workers, we’re not just investing in them—we’re investing in the future of agriculture.

#QueSeraFarms #Agriculture #BackboneoftheAgriculture