Pieces on Peace, Farmworker Reality Tour — Special Edition

On Sunday, July 12, around 30 members of our Presbytery attended an engaging, illuminating, thought-and-empathy-provoking Farmworker Reality Tour held by the Center for Farmworker Families https://farmworkerfamily.org/.

We had the opportunity to hear testimony from farmworkers who shared about the dangers of crossing the desert to come to America in search of opportunity, the challenges and lack of protections for farmworkers and families, and the brutality of farm labor – especially in our region’s strawberry industry. Dr. Ann Lopez, founder and director of the Center for Farmworker Families, shared an informative presentation on the implications of NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) for farmers in Mexico and the resulting decades of immigration crises at the US/Mexico border.

A major takeaway for our group was to BUY ORGANIC PRODUCE. This is not only a healthier choice for consumers but, more importantly, is a choice that supports our farmworkers, who are exposed to dangerously high levels of pesticides, including some that are linked to cancer and Parkinson’s. Dr. Ann left us with a poignant reflection by the late and great Dr. Jane Goodall, “Someday we shall look back on this dark era of agriculture… How could we have ever believed that it was a good idea to grow our food with poisons?” As a Presbytery, we must faithfully respond with love for our neighbor and respect for all God’s creation by standing in solidarity with our siblings in Christ who harvest our food.

Want to learn more or get more involved? Keep an eye out for follow-up events and actions, and contact Veronica to join our Peace and Justice Working Group.

 

– Veronica Ota, Peacemaking & Justice Advocate