Picture Credit: Dancing in My Head Photography

Faces of the Harvest

Written by Iriana Medina Community Engagement Coordinator at La Plaza

Under the vast, open sky, the farm worker toils with unwavering dedication, their hands calloused yet tender as they plant each tree with care. Every sunrise witnesses their devotion as they nurture the saplings, whispering promises of growth and abundance. With each passing season, they pour their heart into the soil, tending to the trees with the same love one might give to a cherished companion. Their fingers trace the lines of the bark, feeling the strength that only time and care can cultivate. It is a relationship of love. When harvest time comes, the fruits of their labor hang heavy and ripe, a testament to months of tireless work. The farm worker’s dedication transforms into delicious and nutritious food, shared and enjoyed by many, each bite a tribute to their passionate craft. If the fruits and vegetables that we eat are a tribute of dedication and love, can we return this into tribute of grateful gratitude to those working in the American fields?

Picture Credit: Geoff Crumbaugh Photography

Hispanic migrant agricultural workers endure the hardship of leaving their families behind for 7-9 months each year, birthday celebrations, newborns, sicknesses and death of their families many times have to be celebrated or mourned in the distance. Technology has made it so the distance feels shorter through video calls, although the feelings of loneliness for having to work away from their beloved ones almost becomes an act of heroism, making the best of their abilities to numb those emotions and keep working in the fields. and dedicating themselves to labor tirelessly to ensure food reaches our tables.

Facts About the Workers

H2A Hispanic migrant agricultural workers are here legally. There are a lot of misconceptions around seasonal workers and here are some facts that may deconstruct ideas that you may have heard about the people that harvest the crops. Farm owners must follow several steps to bring workers from abroad with H2A visas:

1. Demonstrate Need: They must show there are not enough U.S. workers who are able, willing, qualified, and available to do the temporary and seasonal work.

2. Obtain Certification: They must apply for temporary labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This includes submitting a job order to the State Workforce Agency (SWA) and filing an H-2A application with the DOL.

3. Recruit U.S. Workers: Employers must actively recruit U.S. workers through advertising and contact with former employees.

4. Provide Wages and Working Conditions: They must offer wages at least equal to the prevailing wage for the type of work and provide housing, meals, transportation, and other working conditions that meet federal and state standards.

5. File Petition: Once the DOL certifies the need, farm owners must file a petition (Form I-129) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request H-2A workers.

6. Visa Processing: After USCIS approves the petition, prospective workers must apply for an H-2A visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad, attend an interview, and obtain the visa before entering the United States.

7. Compliance: Farm owners must comply with all regulations and maintain records to ensure they meet the program’s requirements throughout the employment period.

Faces of the Harvest was created in collaboration with La Plaza, and written by Iriana Medina Community Engagement Coordinator at La Plaza.