In CA, we understand that our immigrant community is vital to our economy and essential services. Over 20,000 indigenous Mexicans live in Ventura County alone, and of these, 17,000 work in agriculture, doing the backbreaking labor that puts food on our tables and keeps our local agricultural economy strong.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, these farmworkers were logically classified as essential workers by Gov. Newsom because FOOD!!!, but could not access timely and reliable information in their language to access vaccines in California and suffered disproportionately higher death rates as a result. (44.5% of cases and 42.1% of deaths in California). And even if information were available, fear of consequences due to their immigration status kept many from accessing life-saving vaccines and treatment they needed.
There are two bills that would BEGIN the process of fixing this inhumane situation.
Continue reading “Join MICOP’s Collective Call to Action – Tell Governor Newsom to Sign SB 435 and SB 831! “