Happy Week of Labor Day, everyone! We hope that you all had an enjoyable long weekend and that it serves as a moment to reflect on all the workers whose labor we depend on every day! Among those workers who contribute to our everyday existence are our farmworkers. Did you know that farmworkers legally have a lower minimum wage in the state of New Jersey? The current minimum wage for most workers is $15.13/hour, but the minimum wage for farmworkers is just $12.81. Farmworkers are also not owed overtime pay for their work after 40 hours/week. Even though many farmworkers may work 7 days a week or 60-80 hours, they do not have to be paid overtime. These exclusions have been in place since the inception of our labor laws in the 1930's, and continue to persist today.
States across the country have begun to rectify these wrongs - changing laws in California, Washington State, New York, and more. Just about one month ago, CATA, together with legal representation from the ACLU of New Jersey and the Seton Hall Center for Social Justice, filed a lawsuit demanding that the state of New Jersey end wage discrimination against farmworkers!
When we asked two of CATA's Farmworker organizers about why this case is important and the impact it could have on workers, this is what they said:
“Farmworkers have been denied fundamental rights for many years, and they deserve to be free from the discrimination and racism that has denied them fair wages,” said Manuel Guzman, Lead Organizer at CATA. "Increased income will allow workers to more fully support their families and enjoy their lives.”
“Better pay for farmworkers would lead to improved living conditions, better access to healthcare, and more opportunities for education and personal growth,” said Edgar Aquino-Huerta, Worker Organizer at CATA. “With higher wages, workers will be able to better prioritize their health and safety, reducing the risk of injuries and illnesses related to overwork and inadequate rest. They will also be better able to afford stable and safe housing, reducing the risk of homelessness and housing insecurity.”
If you'd like to read more about this case, check out:
"Nos sentimos olvidados": trabajadores agrícolas luchan por sus derechos en EE.UU. ¿Cuáles son los planes de Trump y Harris para ellos? (telemundo.com)
In the coming weeks and months, we will be sharing opportunities for you to support this work! Keep on the lookout! In the meantime, consider supporting CATA and the ACLU of NJ with a financial donation!