US farm workers are facing unprecedented fear due to Trump administration immigration raids and deportations, according to a new survey by the United Farm Workers Foundation. The survey, released Thursday, reveals that 92% of farm workers say raids and deportations have affected their employment, while 90% worry about family separation. These findings highlight the severe emotional and practical toll on the agricultural workforce.
Survey Highlights: Widespread Fear Among Farm Workers
The survey polled 2,250 farm workers, many undocumented, about their experiences with intensified immigration enforcement. Key findings include:
Get the #1 Wireless Door Camera
REOLINK Bestseller: 2K Weatherproof Video Doorbell, No Monthly Fees.
- 92% report employment impact from raids and deportations
- 90% fear family separation
- 61% are shopping less due to fear of encounters
- 29% avoid seeking medical attention
- 17% fear forced labor in detention if arrested
Long-Term Residents Still Vulnerable
Despite many respondents being longtime US residents, fear persists. 80% have been in the US for over 10 years, and 41% for over 20 years. This indicates that even established community members are not immune to the crackdown.
Personal Stories: The Human Cost
Yasmine, a farm worker and DACA recipient, shared her story: “When I leave to work, I’m afraid to not come home and to never see my daughters again.” She has been in the US for over 20 years and has two US-citizen daughters. Her husband is undocumented, and she has had to prepare her children for possible separation.
Impact on Daily Life and Health
The fear extends beyond work. Many families avoid going out, even for celebrations. Yasmine noted, “The other day was our daughter’s 11th birthday and we couldn’t celebrate it out of fear of going out.” This avoidance behavior is also affecting access to healthcare, with 29% skipping medical care.
| Impact Area | Percentage Affected |
|---|---|
| Employment | 92% |
| Family separation worry | 90% |
| Shopping less | 61% |
| Avoiding medical care | 29% |
| Fear of forced labor in detention | 17% |
Key Takeaways
- Immigration raids are disrupting the agricultural labor force
- Long-term residents are not protected from fear
- Health and daily activities are suffering
- Families are preparing for potential separation