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From the Desk of the Executive Director
Daniel Sheehan, AFOP Executive Director
November 1, 2023
A huge thank-you to all who helped make AFOP’s 2023 national conference a resounding success. At the meeting, we heard from our partners at the United States Department of Labor (DOL) about the very latest on National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) rules, regulations, and interpretations, and about the department’s plans for the coming year. We learned from Dr. Andrew Weigand of Social Policy Research about how NFJP continues to surpass all other DOL grant programs in performance despite all the difficulties grantees face in reaching and serving farmworkers. We were inspired by guest speakers who challenged us to raise our game and become better workers, colleagues, and people. We got trained in the fundamentals of farmworker service and saw more than a 100 of our friends and teammates graduate from the AFOP Training Institute. Everyone I spoke with said it was the finest AFOP conference yet.
On matters pertaining to Washington, D.C., we also were pleased to hear that both the House of Representatives and Senate DOL appropriations bills fully fund NFJP at President Biden’s requested level. That is worth celebrating because NFJP is the only Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act program that the House legislation did not cut. The only one. We are not talking about small cuts, either. The measure proposes slicing some programs by as much as 50 percent, and others more deeply than that. For example, the bill would eliminate completely the mainline Youth grant program.
Why did the House spare NFJP? Ask a simple question and get a spectacularly fantastic answer. The House fully funds the program because you who deliver this program for DOL, you who deliver this program for Congress, and, most importantly, you who deliver this program for farmworkers, do a knockout job and deserve continued support. It is because of you there is a farmworker jobs program. It is as simple as that. You help people succeed, people who might not were it not for you. You should be proud. AFOP commends you and thanks you for all your long hours and ceaseless dedication to serving farmworkers.
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INSIDE THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
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New NFJP e-Learning Module Published to WorkforceGPS
AFOP
November 18, 2023
The National Office has released a new e-Learning module on NFJP eligibility, described as a “a self-paced tool designed to break down program guidance so that program staff will feel confident when determining an applicant’s eligibility for farmwork status and low-income status.” The module is divided into seven sections, including resources and extra activities, with an opportunity to do a “knowledge check” at three different points in the module. It was published to WorkforceGPS on October 26th.
Grantee staff of all experience levels will benefit from the module, though it might prove especially useful for those training new staff.
View the module here.
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New Grantee Performance Management System (GPMS) Under Construction, to Be Rolled Out in 2025
AFOP
November 14, 2023
On September 20th, the National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) team in the National Office announced that they will be developing a new Grantee Performance Management System (GPMS), to be launched with “baseline system functionality” by July 2025. This system, they said, will “serve as the primary mechanism for grantees to enter, track, and submit the participant data that feeds into generating grantees’ Quarterly Performance Reports (QPRs) through the Workforce Integrated Performance System (WIPS).”
AFOP members have long expressed the need for just such a centralized, DOL-run performance data management system. However, they have also developed their own processes for performance reporting over the years, which the GPMS would replace.
Grantees are advocating for their data system managers to be included in the development of the new system to smooth the transition and reduce any negative effects on programs.
Stay tuned for more news on the GPMS as DOL continues to develop it.
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Michael Wyke/AP Photo
The Biden administration is not violating any federal law by allowing acting Labor Secretary Julie Su to serve indefinitely despite her stalled Senate nomination, according to a Government Accountability Office report issued in September. The decision will give the department a powerful rejoinder to fight challenges to regulations the Labor Department has issued under Su’s leadership.
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ICYMI: USDOL Launches New Migrant Worker Websites
AFOP
November 16, 2023
In early September, the Office of the Secretary (OSEC) and the Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB) launched MigrantWorker.gov and its associated Spanish website TrabajadorMigrante.gov to “make it easier for migrant workers in the United States to find information about their rights and who to contact if they have a question or complaint.”
The site features quick drop-down, easy-to-digest text boxes with short videos addressing common complaints like “I was discriminated against or harassed,” “I was not recruited fairly,” and “I was not paid properly.” It’s an informative, wieldy tool for NFJP staff, particularly those conducting outreach and recruitment.
Check out the new websites and let us know what you think!
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USDOL Announces Creation of New Office to Improve Access for Non-English-Speaking Workers
USDOL
November 15, 2023
The U.S. Department of Labor announced the release of its updated Language Access Plan, including the establishment of a new office in the department’s Civil Rights Center. The Centralized Office of Language Assistance will provide resources and guidance to the department’s 26 sub-agencies to improve access for non-English-speaking workers and individuals with limited English Proficiency. The office will also assist in procuring translation and interpretation services for use across the department.
Said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Administration and Management Carolyn Angus-Hornbuckle, “This new office and updated language access plan demonstrate the department’s commitment to equity, access and meaningful participation by workers with limited English proficiency in our programs and services.”
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Thanks for another great National Conference, everyone! 2023 is in the books!
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U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16), and U.S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) | Photo Credit: TexasBorderBusiness.com
AFOP Endorses Legislation to Bring USDA Focus to Farmworkers
AFOP
November 2, 2023
AFOP has expressed support for legislation soon to be introduced by United States Representative Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) requiring the United States Department of Agriculture to establish an Office of Colonias and Farmworkers Initiatives to ensure that farmworkers and their families know of and have access to USDA programs and assistance. The bill would also require the department to coordinate with other federal agencies, including the United States Department of Labor. Said AFOP in a statement to be included in Congressman Cuellar’s formal press release:
The Office of Colonias and Farmworkers Initiatives Establishment Act of 2023 is welcome and long overdue commonsense legislation. Farmworkers are elemental to the agricultural industry, and, as such, are indispensable to national security. Yet, despite the value they bring to our nation, they are often devalued by society. This much-needed measure will help rectify that by ensuring these essential workers are aware of life-changing federal programs and have the access to participate in them to not only improve their lives and those of their family members, but also to contribute more richly to their communities. AFOP applauds Representative Cuellar for all of his efforts in behalf of our nation’s farmworkers.
Read the Cuellar legislation here.
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Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP
AFOP Urges Adoption of Proposed Rule to Allow DACA Access to Affordable Care Act
AFOP
October 11, 2023
AFOP signed onto a letter from immigration-reform advocates asking President Joe Biden to direct his administration to finalize a proposed rule to expand health coverage for DACA recipients and immigrant children. In April, the Department of Health and Human Services proposed a new regulation that would reduce barriers to enrolling in health coverage for certain groups. In particular, the notice of proposed rulemaking would make DACA recipients eligible for coverage under the Affordable Care Act, as well as Medicaid and CHIP in select circumstances. It would also clarify and strengthen coverage for other populations, including those approved for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status and children applying for humanitarian relief.
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Photo Credit: Farmworker Justice
Marco Cesar Lizarraga Honored in Farmworker Justice Awards Luncheon
AFOP
November 15, 2023
Marco Cesar Lizarraga, Executive Director of La Cooperativa Campesina de California, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Farmworker Justice at its Legacy Awards Luncheon this fall. The Legacy Awards Luncheon honors those who have championed causes on behalf of farmworkers.
Two other award winners joined Mr. Lizarraga in the recognition. Adrienne DerVartanian, the Senior Counsel of the National Women’s Law Center, received the Shelley Davis Memorial Award. The Community Leader Award was given to Nezahualcoyotl Xiuhtecutli, former General Coordinator with the Farmworker Association of Florida.
Congratulations, Marco!
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Maui Economic Opportunity CEO Debbie Cabebe (second from right) was honored by Pacific Business News as one of Hawai‘i’s Most Admired Leaders for 2023 at a gathering Nov. 9 in Waikiki. Cheering on Debbie at the event were (from left) MEO Board Vice President Bard Peterson, President Carol Reimann and Treasurer Cliff Alakai.
Lahaina News
November 17, 2023
At a November 9 ceremony in Waikiki, Hawaii, Pacific Business News honored Maui Economic Opportunity Chief Executive Officer Debbie Cabebe as one of 27 Most Admired Leaders in Hawai‘i in 2023.
Debbie directs one of Maui County’s largest nonprofit organizations with a $22 million annual budget in 2022, more than 200 employees on Maui, Moloka‘i and Lana‘i, and more than 40 programs that help low-income residents, persons with disabilities, kupuna, youth, and other disenfranchised members of the community. [Note from AFOP: MEO also administers the NFJP for the State of Hawaii, and Debbie serves on AFOP's Board of Directors.]
After the tragic Maui wildfire, the State of Hawaii designated MEO as its partner to run a program that supports displaced families with children with rent, vehicle purchases, utility payments, clothing and school supplies and a jobs program for displaced workers. MEO also has been running a program providing six months of rent to displaced fire families, funded by the Hawaii Community Foundation.
In her a letter of support, MEO Board President Carol Reimann described Debbie as a “highly respected leader with the innate ability to handle challenging situations with grace and dignity.”
“Her integrity and leadership are a positive force in Maui's nonprofit world,” she added.
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Photo Credit: Proteus, Inc.
Proteus, Inc. Hosts Successful “I’m Thankful for Farmworkers” Dinner
Proteus, Inc.
November 15, 2023
Proteus, Inc. hosted the 5th annual I’m Thankful for Farmworkers Dinner on November 9, 2023. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors and attendees, it was able to raise an incredible $86,500. These funds will go directly toward providing farmworkers with the resources they need to reach their dreams.
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Luis Guillen | Photo Credit: Telamon Corp.
Luis Guillen – AFOP’s “Migrant Farmworker of the Year”
Telamon Corporation
November 20, 2023
Luis Guillen was awarded AFOP’s Migrant Farmworker of the Year Award at this year’s national conference. Here is his story, as submitted by Telamon.
Luis was the youngest of four siblings raised by a single parent in the state of South Carolina. His mother supported them by working in the tobacco and strawberry fields, sometimes making less than minimum wage. His sister and one of his brothers had both previously completed Telamon and earned occupational certificates. They referred Luis to the program.
Upon enrolling in NFJP, Luis expressed interest in a career in Computer Programming. With Telamon's support, he pursued his goal through high school and college, majoring in Computer Science. A first-generation college student, he received his Bachelor of Science Degree last year in Computational Science with a GPA of 3.289. Not only that, but Luis graduated debt-free, thanks to Telamon who assisted with his remaining tuition balance.
Shortly after graduation, a major insurance company contacted Luis for a job interview, then offered him a full-time position as an IT Business Unit Trainee with a starting salary of $20.00 per hour. Finally, Luis could begin working in his dream career. Luis worked hard and finished training last month, which means he now earns $33.00 per hour as a full-time Developer.
Luis and his family expressed appreciation to Telamon and NFJP for helping him, his sister, and his brother realize their dreams. With NFJP, anything is possible!
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FARMWORKERS AND THANKSGIVING
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Photo Credit: Sentientmedia.org
Farmworkers, Thanksgiving, and the Struggle for Decent Work
Aspen Institute - Blog
By Merrit Stüven
November 9, 2023
Every November, families in the United States gather around the Thanksgiving table to celebrate, bond, and enjoy a nice meal together. However, few consider how that meal reaches our tables, despite the fact that the food supply chain involves some of the harshest working conditions in the country. The predominantly immigrant workers who harvest and process our food are subjected to dangerous and harsh conditions, and often they do not have the wages or time off to have the same leisurely Thanksgiving that many families enjoy.
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Virtual Reality Has Expanded into a New Field – Job Training
Washington Post
August 10, 2023
VR is hardly perfect — as anyone who’s gotten dizzy or sick in a headset knows — but in its ideal state, it could democratize training in a significant way. If VR can deliver on its promise to closely replicate the real thing, teaching can work for someone in a rural classroom as well as it would in an urban lab.
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10 Growing Jobs That Pay Well and Don’t Need a 4-Year Degree
USDOL - Blog
By Emily Rolen
November 13, 2023
In 2022, about 7 out of 10 jobs were in occupations that don't require a 4-year degree for entry. Here's a closer look at 10 that don't need a bachelor's, are expected to grow considerably faster than average and that pay above the median. For example, wind turbine service technicians are projected to grow faster than any other occupation from 2022-32 (44.9%) and earned above-average wages of $57,320 in 2022.
Three occupations in the list – industrial machinery mechanics, forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists, and hearing aid specialists – do not require any postsecondary education for entry. However, they all require on-the-job training.
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JUSTIN SULLIVAN—GETTY IMAGES
The Trucking Bubble Has Burst Again, According to Time.com
What Does This Mean for NFJP Grantees?
AFOP
November 16, 2023
Trucking goes through regular boom-bust cycles, and experts think we are on the verge of another bust. Since 2020, the number of truck drivers has nearly doubled, even while jobs are disappearing. In July of this year, trucking company Yellow Corp. declared bankruptcy, and some are viewing the event as a sign of things to come. Rising diesel costs and falling freight prices are reducing profit margins significantly.
Considering the other elephant in the room – driverless technology – the days of traditional truck driving already seem numbered. As reported by Reuters this month, Aurora Innovation opened its first lane for driverless trucks connecting Dallas and Houston, supported by its commercial trucking terminal in Houston.
Labor Market Information shows a steady growth rate for trucking, but the data is not perfect. “It used to be a sure bet,” says Martín Campos-Davis, Executive Director for OHDC, as he, like many NFJP grantees, viewed trucking as a reliable career path for their participants. But after reading reports about a possible downturn in the industry, OHDC is now conducting “an internal review of how many clients we put into truck driving”.
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FARMWORKER HEALTH & SAFETY
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EPA Awards AFOP Grant to Conduct Focus Groups on Bilingual Pesticide Labels
Melanie Forti, AFOP Health & Safety Programs Director
November 14, 2023
The Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2022 (PRIA 5) requires the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to seek stakeholder input on ways EPA can make bilingual pesticide labeling accessible to farmworkers and implement a plan to ensure farmworkers have access to the bilingual pesticide labeling by December 2025.
EPA Region 9 recently funded AFOP to help conduct four focus groups with farmworkers, agricultural employers, and pesticide handlers to solicit input on the implementation of the Spanish labeling law. California Human Development (CA), Oregon Human Development Corporation (NV), Proteus, Inc. (CA), and Campesinos Sin Fronteras (AZ), AFOP’s partners in this project, will conduct the two-hour focus group over the next two months.
Participant identities will be kept anonymous for their own protection. Also, they will receive a stipend for their time. EPA will use the information gathered to better implement the Spanish labeling law.
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NFTP is Ready for 2024!
Melanie Forti, AFOP Health & Safety Programs Director
November 15, 2023
AFOP Health and Safety is working diligently to once again implement its National Farmworker Training Program (NFTP) for the coming year. Through NFTP, AFOP and its program partners provide life-saving knowledge and skills to the farmworker community. The program includes many occupational health and safety trainings, including the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) that is required by law for all farmworkers, Heat Stress Prevention Training, and pesticide safety trainings geared towards farmworker children, mothers, and families.
AFOP will soon send more than 2,000 pounds of materials to new and returning training organizations; however, it is not too late to participate in the program in 2024. Please contact Forti@AFOP.org for information on how to join.
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CHILDREN IN THE FIELDS CAMPAIGN
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BENJAMIN LOWY/GETTY IMAGES
As Child Labor Violations Skyrocket, Casey, Murray, DeLauro Introduce Legislation to Combat Child Labor Exploitation
U.S. Senator Bob Casey Press Release
October 26, 2023
U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-3) introduced legislation to protect children from exploitative child labor practices and hold the companies and individuals who take advantage of them accountable. The Children Harmed in Life-threatening or Dangerous (CHILD) Labor Act strengthens our ability to combat child labor by cracking down on employers who violate child labor laws with stronger penalties and allowing children who have been seriously injured to sue their employers. The bill also expands child labor provisions to hold suppliers and subcontractors throughout the supply chain responsible and authorizes the Department of Labor to label goods that are produced with child labor.
“Children do not belong in factories or working during hours when they should be studying, spending time with their families, or simply being children. Yet too many bad actors get away with forcing kids to work long hours and under dangerous conditions,” said Senator Casey. “It is long past time we bring our child labor laws into the 21st century and fight back against the employers, contractors, and subcontractors that violate them.”
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Sponsors Needed for CIFC’s 2024 Art and Essay Contest
Melanie Forti, Children in the Fields Campaign Director
November 16, 2023
AFOP needs support to continue the Art & Essay contest in 2024. At the September AFOP national conference, many attendees said that one child’s reading of her essay was the “highlight” of the whole conference and wished AFOP could have afforded to bring more winners to the meeting. The only way AFOP can do that, however, is with donors’ generous financial support.
Sponsorships fund the winners’ prizes and, depending on the amount, bring one or more winners to AFOP’s National Conference. All donors receive full mention on contest promotions, social media posts, the winner’s booklet, the video, and CIFC’s website. Most importantly, they will have the satisfaction of knowing they have made a farmworker child very happy and brought dreams of a brighter future.
Please contact Melanie at forti@afop.org to add support to this worthy effort.
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Farmworkers Win First Election to Unionize Under New California Law
KSBW Monterey-Salinas
November 13, 2023
A fight for better working conditions has just begun for nearly 300 farmworkers in Stanislaus County as they voted to unionize.
The win comes as a first under a new California law that allows for easier union representation to a community that hasn't historically been a part of unions.
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The AFOP Washington Newsline (ISSN# 1056-8565) is produced by the Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs (AFOP), a national federation of agencies serving migrant and seasonal farmworkers. AFOP’s mission is to improve the quality of life for migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families by promoting self-sufficiency through employment and training opportunities, educational attainment, and health and safety.
The publication is funded by subscriptions and the members of AFOP. The Washington Newsline receives no financial support from the federal government. Staff may be reached by calling (202) 963-3200.
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