Executive Director of CA FWD’s California Stewardship Network Ish Herrera (middle) (Photo courtesy of Ish Herrera)
On Wednesday, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 2183 (Stone), which allows farmworkers to vote at a physical location or by mailing a representation ballot card to an Agricultural Labor Relations Board office.
The signing took place at the site of a vigil held by farmworkers near the State Capitol, following a 335-mile march from Delano to Sacramento in August organized by the United Farm Workers of America to support the bill.
As the child of former farmworkers, I commend Governor Newsom for having the courage to sign AB 2183. I had the privilege of walking alongside our state’s farmworkers on two occasions during their historic march this past August and was reminded of their undaunted strength, determination and resilience.
I saw my own family reflected in their sweat, exhaustion, shared dreams, and hope for a better future. It warms my heart to know their efforts have not been in vain.
Our farmworkers are essential in so many more ways than just helping to feed the world. They deserve the right to vote in a union election confidentially and safely without intimidation and fear of retribution. !Si se pudo!
Ish Herrera is executive director of CA FWD’s California Stewardship Network
