Behind Every Meal: The Farmworkers Who Feed America

It’s often said, food is the universal language.

Food is sustenance, culture, and a means of connecting with loved ones and the world around us. And yet, for being such an ingrained part of everyone’s life, too often, we forget about the people behind our food.

The United States’ agricultural industry employs around 2.4 million farmworkers, at least half of whom are undocumented and another 10 percent who hold temporary status. Farmworkers do the most essential work – ensuring America is fed. And yet, their jobs are among the most dangerous and poorly compensated in the country.

The People and Stories Behind Our Food

Over the summer of 2024, NILC and United Farm Workers hosted a series of legal clinics in Bakersfield, California. These events brought together immigrant farmworkers and were led by volunteers and organizers, many of whom are also farmworkers themselves.

We had the opportunity to sit down with several women to learn about their stories. They spoke of their experiences working in the field – long hours and harsh conditions – as well as what motivates them to do this trying work – their children, families, and aspirations for life in the United States.

Here is some of what they shared:

The Urgency of the Moment 

Under the Trump administration, undocumented farmworkers are facing the threat of mass deportations and family separation. Additionally, some employers are pushing for Congress and the Trump administration to lower wages for farmworkers who have temporary visas through the H-2A guest worker program. Under this program, workers’ visas are tied to their employer, setting conditions ripe for exploitation and abuse.

The people who feed the country should not be living in poverty, unable to put food on their own tables.  It is critical that the public and consumers stand with farmworkers and immigrant communities. 

The next time you are preparing to eat, remember Alejandra’s question: “What sacrifice has been made for me to have this food in my hands?”  

Every meal connects us. Let’s make that connection one of dignity and respect.