Immigration reform campaign kicks off at Capitol Hill

More than 70 agricultural organizations descended upon Capitol Hill to press policymakers in Washington to take action on immigration reform, as part of the #IfarmImmigration campaign.

Among the organizations in attendance are United Fresh, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and the Agriculture Workforce Coalition. The campaign is being coordinated by the Partnership for a New American Economy (PNAE) and its #IamImmigration campaign.

The campaign will stress the agriculture sector’s critical need for immigration reform with activities online and on the ground, in Washington D.C. and in key districts. The month started with a Capitol Hill Briefing on February 5,where Congressional staff heard from farmers and ranchers about the need for immigration reform.

“Across the country, crops are rotting on the vine because our farmers don't have the workers they need,” said John Feinblatt, Chair of the Partnership for a New American Economy. "Our choice is clear. We either bring in our workers or we bring in our food. The American agriculture industry depends on getting this right.”

Throughout the month, the campaign will release new research on labor shortages while farmers and ranchers will be telling their stories through farm tours, social and traditional media, videos, and community events for members of Congress in their districts.

Visit the PNAE website for more information.