The Equitable Food Initiative has launched a campaign to celebrate the contributions of Hispanic and Latino workers in the agriculture industry as part of National Hispanic Heritage Month.
According to the National Center for Farmworker Health, workers self-identifying as Hispanic make up nearly 80% of the agricultural workforce, both U.S.- and foreign-born, EFI said.
Observed from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates Hispanic communities and the communities’ contributions to U.S. society and offers an opportunity to recognize their rich contributions to agriculture.
EFI said its new online resources inform, celebrate and raise awareness of the critical role Hispanic and Latino workers play in bringing fresh food to tables across the country. The landing page features a variety of educational materials, including:
- One-on-one video conversations with Hispanic farmworkers, showcasing their contributions to agriculture and personal stories of resilience and dedication.
- Helpful ways to engage Hispanic workers that can drive business success, enhance workplace dynamics and create sustainable growth.
- Resources to learn more about the impact of Hispanic communities in food production.
“Hispanic communities are essential to the success of our agricultural system, and their contributions often go unrecognized,” LeAnne Ruzzamenti, director of marketing and communications for EFI, said in a news release. “At EFI, we strive to recognize the contributions of workers every day, and Hispanic Heritage Month provides a special opportunity to shine a light on and share their hard work, dedication and the need for fair, equitable treatment on farms. We hope that other farming operations and agricultural companies join us in celebrating the culture, history and background of those contributing to our industry.”
EFI is a certification organization that partners with growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumer groups.
