CATA just concluded its second Workers Rights Ambassadors Training with 17 participants completing the intensive 12-hour program led by CATA staff. Throughout the training, participants learned about the history of workers' rights, familiarized themselves with federal and state laws protecting workers, and learned about regulatory agencies that can provide support. They also shared many of their own experiences facing injustices in the workplace and how prevalent abuses are still, especially for immigrant workers.

One of the highlights of the training was the emphasis on organizing and its crucial role in advocating for change. Armed with comprehensive knowledge and a deeper understanding of workers' rights, these ambassadors are now better equipped to support workers in their community and advocate for the change they deserve. Together, they will be able to empower workers and help others advocate for safe, fair, and just working conditions.

Over the past few months, we have had numerous opportunities to bring the issues faced by farmworkers and immigrant workers to the forefront.

During the last weekend of March, in recognition of Cesar Chavez Day on March 31, our colleagues and compañeros at the Food Chain Workers' Alliance organized the first-ever Bi-National People's Tribunal on the Struggles of Farmworkers in North America. With representation from farmworkers across six different states in the U.S. and Canada, workers shared stories about the challenges they face regarding health and safety, immigration, and climate change.

CATA board member Juan Garcia provided testimony for this historic event, drawing on his 25+ years of experience working in agriculture in New Jersey. Below is an excerpt from his testimony:

"On hot temperature days, if we do not cover ourselves and do not wear appropriate clothing, we are exposed to cancer problems, heart problems, vision problems, and more. It is worth mentioning that the majority do not receive medical attention due to barriers like their status, language, the inflated cost of medications and consultations, the impediments posed by some employers, and the lack of knowledge that there are clinics that serve people with limited resources and special attention to agricultural workers. But it must also be noted that the worker focuses on completing the job, and it is not easy to take a few hours or a day to attend to himself."

On May 1, we took to the streets in Newark, New Jersey, alongside our partners in the Job Bridge Campaign—a new initiative aimed at strengthening the safety net in New Jersey and expanding unemployment protections for more workers, including undocumented workers. It was a beautiful day to march and make our voices heard! If you'd like to learn more about the Job Bridge Campaign, please get in touch with us at mhurley@cata-farmworkers.org

On April 20, we commemorated Earth Day at the Bridgeton Community Garden. This day holds significance as it brings us together to celebrate, learn, and grow. Nearly equal participation from adults and children marked this occasion, with 17 participants, including newcomers, enriching our community.

Our garden isn't merely about growing food; it's about nurturing future food justice activists and exposing a new generation to sustainable food production. We empower ourselves and our community to cultivate food without harmful chemicals, prioritizing health and well-being.

Our recent workday focused on "Compost Creation," where we sifted in-house compost, showcasing sustainable waste management. Our dedicated members prepared delicious meals, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.

Meetings occur twice monthly or as needed, driven by garden tasks. Our upcoming workday on May 25 will see the planting of seedlings like tomatoes and peppers, and our market stand will offer spring produce, accepting SNAP benefits.

Interested in our food justice program? Visit our website or contact Kathia Ramirez, our Food Justice Co-Coordinator, at kramirez@cata-farmworkers.org for details. Join us in nurturing our community and promoting sustainable practices.