“Farm workers are out in the fields now making sure we have food on our supermarket shelves. Farm workers are worried, just like all of us. It's scary out there. Non-union farm workers are especially worried. At least workers under UFW contract are getting informed about COVID-19, what to do and steps their company is taking to protect them. But most non-union farm workers we're talking to, especially those under labor contractors, are not getting any information. We've been reaching out to farm workers digitally, via the phone and text, and site visits to workplaces. We're concerned--very concerned.
Farm worker Jesus Zuniga told us, “As of yet, we have not been informed about the coronavirus. We are working like we normally do. I am very concerned because at this company they don't care about us, they don't give us any information, no training. Schools have closed their classes. In our city, several events have closed, everyone is taking precautions to help combat this pandemic and here where we work we continue as if nothing is occurring. If I get sick, I stay at the will of God because they don't offer us a medical plan or other benefits.”
Strawberry worker Marcelina Gonzalez shares, “In my company they gave us a hygiene meeting on how to keep clean, but they never mentioned anything about the coronavirus -- they only mention we should wash our hands before picking up the product. Not having information from our employer about this virus can be a big risk for us to take the virus home.”
Things are different at companies with a UFW contract. Wine grape worker Adelaida Mendoza works at Washington state's Chateau Ste Michelle. She says, “When we started hearing about the coronavirus, the company gave us a special training about how to protect ourselves from this virus. The company is worried about our health and they made a safety plan for us. They have put out hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes in the lunch rooms. The company is going to implement social distancing practices to try to avoid the spread of illnesses. They always have soap, water, and paper towels to clean our hands and disposable cups to drink water. I feel safer because I have the RFK medical plan, sick leave and personal hours to take time off in case I get sick.”
We are receiving reports from other UFW contract companies outlining the plans put in place. But there is more that needs to be done. We are taking every step to make sure ALL farm workers are protected. We sent a letter to all growers and ag organizations asking that they take proactive steps to ensure the safety of farm workers, who are laboring through this crisis to keep supermarkets stocked and America fed. Your donation will help us continue to safeguard the men and women doing this essential work.”
- from the United Farm Workers website. Please, please consider donating.
https://ufw.org/covid19donations/
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