Farmworkers Push for Union Rights as Temporary Labor Rises

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Farmworkers in Washington state, like Gilardo Perez, are advocating for union rights to address issues like low wages, harsh working conditions, and the increasing use of temporary H-2A guest workers to replace local experienced workers. Without union protections, workers have little ability to negotiate for fair pay and better treatment. The state's Attorney General has taken legal action against unfair hiring practices in the agricultural industry, but workers are seeking the power to proactively negotiate protections before abuses occur.

Why it matters

The push for farmworker union rights in Washington highlights the growing challenges facing experienced local agricultural workers as employers increasingly turn to temporary guest worker programs. This trend raises concerns about worker exploitation, community displacement, and the long-term sustainability of the state's agricultural workforce.

The details

Gilardo Perez, a farmworker from Quincy, Washington with over 25 years of experience, has testified that he was targeted for speaking out against the use of H-2A guest worker programs, which he says are being used to replace longtime local workers with temporary labor. Without union protections, workers like Perez have little ability to advocate for fair pay and better working conditions. State Attorney General Nick Brown has taken legal action against unfair hiring practices in the agricultural industry, but workers are seeking the power to proactively negotiate protections before abuses occur.

• Gilardo Perez has worked in agriculture for more than 25 years.
• Earlier this legislative session, Perez testified about being targeted for speaking out against the use of H-2A guest worker programs.

What they’re saying