The urgent need for Migrant Justice: The systemic oppression of migrant workers in Addison County and a fight for visibility
Middlebury, Vt. is a small, idyllic town nestled in the Green Mountains. Despite its serene exterior, hundreds of migrant workers are facing deplorable working and living conditions that remain invisible to our community. Migrant workers play a critical role in the state’s agricultural industry, supporting Vermont brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Cabot Cheese. They are employed by over half of all Vermont farms, often live in unsafe and exploitative conditions and lack access to basic rights and protections that many of us take for granted. We argue that it is the responsibility of our Middlebury community to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are recognized. As members of Juntos, the student-migrant solidarity network on campus, we aim to lead this effort.