Marching for Equality for Farmworkers

A coalition of organizations supporting farmworkers in New York State marched “330 Miles Toward Justice,” from April 20 to 30 to rally for fair labor practices for New York State farmworkers. The event was sponsored by Centro Independiente de Trabajadores Agricolas (CITA), the Justice for Farmworkers Coalition and the Diocesan-based Rural & Migrant Ministry. The march originated in two cities, New York and Seneca Falls, with both converging on the Capitol steps in Albany. Marchers demanded that the Senate Labor Committee sponsor omnibus legislation to remove the legislative exclusions, which deny farmworkers the same rights as other laborers such as the right to a day of rest, overtime pay, disability insurance and collective bargaining protections. A bill upholding the rights of farmworkers has passed in the State Assembly for the past four years but companion legislation has failed to pass in the Senate. The following are personal reflections of some of the marchers:

Monday, April 21
As we prepared to begin the second day of the Eastern March, I had the image of dripping water upon a rock. While I would wish for the thundering stream of the prophet Amos, our effort for justice in New York is slower drip. Persistent and constant. And slowly we are wearing away that rock of oppression that is blocking farmworkers from equality and justice. It is hard to get people to support farmworkers. They are so isolated and lead such a different life than most of us and yet, they are as close to us as the food we eat. We may not have great numbers marching, but those who do march realize that our liberation and sustenance is bound with that of the farmworkers. So let Justice roll down like a mighty water — but until it does, let us be a persistent and a constant drip.
-The Rev. Richard Witt, Executive Director, Rural & Migrant Ministry

Wednesday, April 23
On a raw and windy April day, with gray skies and a thin sun, I meet up with the group as they arrive at St. Philip’s Garrison parish hall having walked 6.5 miles in the cold on day four of the march to Albany from Manhattan. Outside the Rev. Frank Geer was barbecuing hamburgers and veggie burgers. As the small group started to warm up, an incongruity arose amongst the placards, discarded socks and hats and banners. A call from the western contingent — it’s snowing on their route.

Back on the road, I march with Miguel, farmworker and Amerindian from Peru. He lives locally but will soon return to his native land. He spoke of the human needs that are not being addressed despite all the good efforts for the farm workers. How do you ease the heartache of someone who misses their children and their love?

Some drivers honk in support as they drive by. At the village church, where supper awaits, I say goodbye, hugs all around. For an afternoon, I was part of a larger arena outside my privileged life. In their footprints there is commitment. In the struggle, there is hope.
-Ann Douglas, St. Mark’s, Mount Kisco

Saturday, April 26
Time and time again people comment about the wonderful and inspiring participation of youth in the Campaign. Throughout the march we have had children, high school students and university students join us. They bring a tremendous energy and passion that is contagious (especially when they join you after you have gone from marching to trudging!). For me hope comes in part when I know that the beacon of light that I carry for a brief moment in history can and will be passed on to those who follow me.

Today our companion was a constant rain. Nonetheless we had over 80 people participate in the march. We were grateful to the faith community members of Hyde Park United Methodist, St. James Episcopal in Hyde Park, Christ Episcopal in Poughkeepsie and the Woodstock Reformed Jewish Congregation. One especially uplifting moment was coming down a long hill and being met by members of St. Margaret’s, Staatsburg who had set up a refreshment stand beside the road. We are also grateful to the Old Dutch Reformed Church in Rhinebeck who hosted us for lunch.
-The Rev. Richard Witt

Wednesday, April 30
I walked the last four miles. I was also present when the march began. Two years ago, the leader of the State Senate, Sen. Joseph Bruno, promised to pass the farmworkers’ omnibus bill. The Assembly has passed it, but the Senate has failed to do so. Our purpose is to bring this issue dramatically to Albany to confront Sen. Bruno with these issues.
-Archdeacon Michael Kendall, Chair, Public Policy Commission of the New York State Council of Churches

For more journal entries and photos, visit the Rural & Migrant Ministry Web site, www.ruralmigrantministry.org.

 

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