At CATA (Comité de Apoyo a los Trabajadores Agrícolas), advocating for workers' rights is a transformative mission. This year, CATA completed its second Workers' Rights Ambassadors Training, where 17 participants engaged in a comprehensive 12-hour program. Among them was Migdalia, a dedicated CATA board member who has participated in the training twice. Her experience and commitment highlight the profound impact of this program and the importance of community-driven advocacy.
A Personal Connection to Advocacy
Migdalia’s involvement with CATA is deeply personal. Her drive to join the training came from her direct experiences with workplace injustices. “I saw many people around me facing problems and not speaking up,” she shares. The discrimination her daughter faced at work while experiencing a health crisis gave Migdalia even more reason to join the program and advocate for change.
She first learned about the training through Jessica Culley, CATA’s General Coordinator. Despite having participated in the program previously, Migdalia opted to take it again to enhance her advocacy skills. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program because it has given me the tools to stand up for myself and others,” she says.
Key Lessons from the Training
The Workers' Rights Ambassadors Training provided Migdalia with essential knowledge about workers' rights and advocacy. A standout moment was learning from an OSHA representative about defending workers' rights and navigating the complaint process. Migdalia particularly valued the training’s focus on ensuring fair treatment and handling workplace issues effectively.
“This training taught us how to ensure everyone is treated equally and how to address grievances,” Migdalia notes. Equipped with this knowledge, she has made a tangible impact in her community by assisting individuals facing wage theft and unsafe working conditions.
Overcoming Challenges and Advocating for Justice
Migdalia’s experiences reflect the broader challenges faced by many migrant workers. She has encountered racism, inadequate pay, and exploitation. Her story includes helping a Venezuelan worker who was owed money but lacked documentation. “I offered to assist him because everyone deserves fair pay for their work,” she explains.
Beyond personal advocacy, Migdalia engages in community outreach, distributing flyers and speaking with Hispanic community members to raise awareness about workers' rights. Her efforts aim to empower others to advocate for fair and just working conditions.
Inspiring Others to Take Action
For Migdalia, advocating for fair and safe working conditions is both a personal and communal mission. “As a CATA board member, my duty is to support workers' rights and assist those in need,” she asserts. Her involvement with CATA and the training program underscores a commitment to improving conditions for all workers.
Her message to other migrant workers is clear: “Speak up, don’t let yourselves be overshadowed. You were brave to come here, and you should be brave in demanding your rights.” Migdalia’s journey exemplifies the power of informed advocacy and community support in creating a just working environment.
Get Involved
Migdalia’s story is an inspiring call to action. If you’re interested in joining the Workers' Rights Ambassadors Program or learning more about how you can make a difference, contact Jessica Culley, CATA’s General Coordinator, at jculley@cata-farmworkers.org. By sharing her experience, we hope to encourage more community members to advocate for their rights and work towards a fairer future.
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