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What impact does lack of Farmworker Justice have on the food we eat and the environment?

Cheyanne Ransome

Lack of farmworker justice has a profound impact on the food we eat and the environment. The food industry is heavily reliant on the labor of farmworkers, who often work long hours in dangerous conditions, without adequate pay or protection. This lack of justice has led to exploitation of workers and has created a system that is unsustainable, harming both the environment and the health of consumers.

One of the most significant impacts of the lack of farmworker justice is the exploitation of workers. The workers in the agriculture industry are often undocumented immigrants, who are vulnerable to exploitation from employers. They work long hours, often without adequate rest or breaks, and are often paid low wages. This has led to a cycle of poverty and exploitation that continues to perpetuate itself.

The lack of farmworker justice has also led to an unsustainable agricultural system. The use of pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals in agriculture has become common, leading to environmental degradation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. These practices also negatively impact the health of workers and consumers alike. Additionally, the overuse of the land has led to soil degradation and erosion, which reduces the agricultural productivity of the land.

The lack of farmworker justice also has an impact on the food we eat. The food industry has become reliant on the mass production of food, which often results in low-quality, processed foods that have little nutritional value. This system also results in a lack of diversity in our food sources, which can lead to the loss of traditional crops and cultural knowledge. Additionally, the intensive farming practices that result from this system can lead to the use of chemicals and pesticides in the production of food, which can negatively impact the health of consumers.

To address these issues, we must work towards farmworker justice by advocating for better wages and working conditions for farmworkers, supporting sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices, and promoting the use of local, organic, and diverse food sources. By doing so, we can create a food system that is just, equitable, and sustainable for all.