We are excited to provide you with an update on our program, "Workers Rights Ambassadors," aimed at empowering individuals with knowledge about labor rights in New Jersey. Over six weeks, from April 4 to May 11, we successfully conducted the program, with the participation of 17 individuals from across the state, predominantly from South Jersey.
Throughout the program, our dedicated participants deepened their understanding of various labor rights topics, including health and safety regulations, wage laws, the right to organize, and more. In addition, we were fortunate to have insightful guest speakers, including representatives from our local OSHA office, the New Jersey Department of Labor (NJ DOL), and a special guest from the Mondi Workers' Organizing campaign.
The knowledge gained by our Workers Rights Ambassadors is now being channeled into planning how they can effectively share this information within their respective communities. We believe in the power of building a network of community leaders who can address and respond to labor abuses. Consequently, we have plans to repeat this program in the future, fostering a strong support system for workers' rights.
Our program attracted participants from diverse backgrounds, with some already engaged in community work through organizations such as Allies in Caring, the Plaza Comunitaria en Bridgeton, Southern Jersey Family Medical Centers, Cosecha, and others. Additionally, we had individuals who have personally experienced challenges with workers' rights and joined to empower themselves in assisting their families, colleagues, and others facing injustices in the workplace.
The significance of our program lies in the unfortunate prevalence of workplace abuses. By educating our community about their rights and empowering them to report such abuses, we aim to change the culture that allows employers to exploit their workers without consequence. Our goal is to prepare our community to stand together, report violations, and support fellow workers, thereby reshaping the acceptance of mistreatment that often accompanies the experiences of immigrant workers.
In the words of one of our participants, Evelia, she expressed her gratitude and eagerness to continue learning and helping others: "Thank you very much to CATA, who gave me the opportunity to participate in this valuable learning experience. It is very beneficial to help more people, and I want to continue learning."
Together, we are creating a stronger, more informed community that can bring about positive change in the labor landscape. We would like to sincerely thank all the participants, guest speakers, and organizations that supported this program. Your dedication and commitment are instrumental in the success of our mission.
Stay tuned for more updates on our Facebook page, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want to get involved: jculley@cata-farmworkers.org. Together, we can make a difference in ensuring fair and just workplaces for all.
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