‘We’re here to give them a voice’: Group marching hundreds of miles to California capitol in support of farm workers
The group is marching in support of AB 2183 a bill that would give farm workers the ability to vote where and when they like, free from the possibility of intimidation
The group is marching in support of AB 2183 a bill that would give farm workers the ability to vote where and when they like, free from the possibility of intimidation
The group is marching in support of AB 2183 a bill that would give farm workers the ability to vote where and when they like, free from the possibility of intimidation
Over 24 days, a large group is raising awareness for farm workers' voting rights by marching 335 miles across California.
“Our farm workers have been voiceless for so long and that’s why we’re here, to give them a voice,” said Connie Perez-Andreesen, CAO/National Vice President of United Farm Workers.
The group is marching in support of AB 2183, a bill that would give farm workers the ability to vote where and when they like, free from the possibility of intimidation. Essentially AB 2183 would make it easier for migrant workers to unionize without fear of retaliation from management.
“It’s very basic; just like you get your ballot at home to vote for any elected official, like the governor won the recall, that’s how we vote, that’s all we’re asking for our farm workers, that’s it,” Perez-Andreesen said.
Hundreds of marchers have braved triple-digit heat for countless hours, walking from Delano en route to Sacramento.
KCRA 3 met with marchers between Stockton and Lodi.
“Hear their prayer, hear your cry for help because this is going on for decades and nothing is being done,” said Terry Osejo, the daughter of a farm worker.
“AB 2183 needs to be signed because they gave the illusion that farmworkers have the right to vote but they can’t vote outside of the workplace,” said Alfonso Grijalva, another marching farm worker.
The group was greeted by the American labor leader Dolores Huerta, known for her work alongside César Chávez.
The group is set to arrive at the state capitol on Fri., Aug. 26.