Photo credit: www.sciencedaily.com

Challenges Faced by Indigenous and Undocumented Farmworkers in the U.S.

Farming remains a demanding occupation, characterized by long hours, hazardous machinery, and strenuous activities. Recent research from Rice University has revealed that indigenous farm workers—many of whom hold legal status in the United States after migrating from Latin America—may experience greater physical discomfort in their work compared to undocumented workers.

Christina Diaz, an associate professor of sociology, along with graduate student Erick Samayoa, authored the study titled “Away from Home, Into the Fields: Assessing the Health of Undocumented and Indigenous Farmworkers,” published in a recent issue of Social Science & Medicine. Utilizing data from the National Agricultural Worker Survey, which encompasses over 20,000 respondents, the researchers sought to deepen the understanding of the living conditions of farmworkers in the U.S. Notably, over 60% of these workers are undocumented, potentially exposing them to poorer working conditions and exploitation.

The researchers discovered that undocumented workers reported relatively better physical health than their indigenous counterparts. In contrast, indigenous laborers emerged as the group most likely to experience physical pain related to their work.

According to Diaz, various factors contribute to the heightened physical pain reported by indigenous workers. “First and foremost, individuals who migrate to the U.S.—often undocumented—tend to be in excellent health. They are generally young and physically capable enough to endure the challenges associated with migration and have the necessary resources for the journey,” she explained.

On the other hand, indigenous populations often endure a “cumulative disadvantage,” as described by Samayoa. This refers to multiple layers of discrimination they may face, both in their countries of origin and after arriving in the U.S.

“Many indigenous individuals encounter language barriers, as they may not speak either English or Spanish, limiting their ability to advocate for themselves, unlike many undocumented workers,” Samayoa noted. “We hypothesize that the significant discrimination and socioeconomic challenges faced by this indigenous demographic may outweigh any advantages that legal status could provide.”

Through this study, the researchers aim to bring awareness to the unique struggles experienced by various immigrant groups in the U.S., hoping to spur further research into how these challenges are influenced by individuals’ backgrounds.

Sergio Chavez, an associate professor of sociology at Rice, and Victoria Bejarano, a former student at the University of Houston, also contributed to the study.

Source
www.sciencedaily.com