In the early hours of a chilly morning in Olympia, Washington, Alfredo Juarez took the lead, ushering a group of 16 farmworkers across the Capitol lawn. Their destination: a series of meetings with lawmakers from the state’s 40th legislative district. As the campaigns director for Familias Unidas por la Justicia, a farmworkers union, Juarez was at the forefront of a movement that sought to bring the voices of those who toil in the fields to the forefront of legislative discussions.
For the past 12 years, Familias Unidas and Community to Community Development, an ecofeminist nonprofit advocating for farmworkers, have organized a people’s tribunal. This event serves as a platform for farmworkers to share their stories, struggles, and aspirations, urging policymakers to enact policies that improve their working conditions and overall well-being. What began as a modest gathering of concerned individuals has evolved into a powerful force for change, influencing tangible policy decisions and gaining the attention of elected officials.
This year’s tribunal coincided with President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Latino and immigrant communities, particularly those engaged in essential farm labor. Against the backdrop of a shifting political landscape, Familias Unidas and Community to Community aimed to advocate for protections for farmworkers, especially in light of increasing hazards posed by climate change.
Rosalinda Guillen, the founder of Community to Community, has been a steadfast advocate for participatory democracy since the 1980s. Recognizing the importance of engaging affected populations in policy discussions, Guillen and her colleagues have taken their cause to Capitol Hill. The people’s tribunal, although lacking legal authority, serves as a vital platform for farmworkers to voice their concerns and propose solutions to the challenges they face.
Through past tribunals, significant victories have been achieved, including guaranteed overtime pay and permanent heat protections for farmworkers. These successes underscore the growing political influence of the movement and offer a blueprint for community organizers nationwide. Edgar Franks, Familias Unidas’ political director, reflects on the evolution of the tribunal, noting the increased attendance of legislators and the profound impact of farmworkers’ testimonies.
During this year’s tribunal, farmworkers and their allies filled the hearing room, sharing stories of hardship and resilience. The threat of deportation loomed large, prompting urgent calls to legislators to reject proposed anti-immigration measures. Representative Alex Ramel assured attendees that such legislation faced steep opposition, emphasizing the importance of grassroots advocacy in shaping policy decisions.
Despite Washington’s leadership in hosting regular tribunals, the practice remains uncommon in other states. Guillen and her colleagues have taken steps to expand the reach of the movement, supporting a binational farmworkers tribunal in New York that brought together workers from across North and South America. This cross-border collaboration highlights the universal nature of the challenges faced by farmworkers and the need for collective action.
Looking ahead, Guillen remains committed to supporting farmworkers until justice is achieved. The tribunal serves as a beacon of hope for those whose labor sustains our food systems, offering a platform for their voices to be heard and their rights to be upheld. As Guillen aptly states, “No matter what the political environment, no matter what happens, we’re moving forward together.” The journey towards justice may be long and arduous, but with unwavering dedication and solidarity, positive change is within reach.
