To: Board of Supervisors
Department or Agency Name(s): Human Resources Department
Staff Name and Phone Number: Janell Crane, 707-565-2885
Vote Requirement: Majority
Supervisorial District(s): Countywide
Recommended Action:
Title
Adopt a Gold Resolution proclaiming March 25-March 31, 2026, as National Farmworker Awareness Week in Sonoma County
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Executive Summary:
Latinos Unidos del Condado de Sonoma requests that the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors proclaim March 25-31, 2026, as National Farmworker Awareness Week in Sonoma County, in recognition of farmworkers’ dedication and the vital contributions they make to daily life.
Discussion:
In 1998, Student Action with Farmworkers (SAF) called for a National Farmworker Awareness Week to link campus groups nationally with speakers, films, and resources. In 1999, SAF coordinated the first National Farmworker Awareness Week, supporting partner organizations to hold rallies & film screenings, support boycotts, organize panel discussions with farmworkers, and do teach-ins about farmworkers and the issues they face.
Since then, March 25 through March 31, National Farmworker Awareness Week provides a nationwide opportunity to recognize and honor the essential role farmworkers play in the country. Farmworkers are fundamental to Sonoma County’s agricultural industry and include individuals whose cultures, languages, and lived experiences enrich the County’s social and economic fabric.
Despite their essential role, farmworkers often face disproportionate health, safety, and economic challenges, including exposure to pesticides, extreme heat, and economic insecurity. National Farmworker Awareness Week provides an opportunity to increase public awareness of these issues while expressing appreciation for the resilience, dedication, and skill of farmworkers.
Proclaiming National Farmworker Awareness Week provides an opportunity for residents of all generations to learn about the essential work farmworkers perform, to acknowledge the challenges they face, and to express appreciation for their contributions and sacrifices. Adoption of this resolution affirms Sonoma County’s commitment to recognizing and honoring farmworkers and their importance to the community.
Prior Board Actions:
March 26, 2024(item 2024-0257)-Adopt a Gold Resolution proclaiming March 25-March 31, 2024, as National Farmworker Awareness Week in Sonoma County.
Fiscal Summary
Narrative Explanation of Fiscal Impacts:
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Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impacts (If Required):
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Attachments:
Resolution
Related Items “On File” with the Clerk of the Board:
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