March 31

National Farm Workers Day

An appreciation day on March 31 honoring the hard work, contributions, and challenges faced by farmworkers who plant, cultivate, and harvest crops to ensure food production.

Yearly Date

March 31

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Celebrate National Farm Workers Day on March 31 to honor the incredible contributions of farm workers around the world! While you may not think about it, these hard-working individuals are responsible for providing us with fresh fruits and vegetables every day. Not only do they work long hours in difficult conditions, but many don’t have access to basic human rights such as healthcare or education. National Farm Workers Day is a great opportunity to recognize their tireless efforts as well as ways we can help support them.

National Farm Workers Day Timeline

1800s

Farm Workers in Early America

In the 1800s, most farm work was done by family members or hired help, often working from dawn to dusk in difficult conditions.

1933

Inception of Labor Legislation

The National Labor Relations Act passed in 1935, but excluded farm workers from collective bargaining rights.

1962

Formation of Farm Workers Association

Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta founded the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA), an important labor union for farm workers.

1975

California Agricultural Labor Relations Act

The California Agricultural Labor Relations Act was enacted, guaranteeing farm workers the right to collective bargaining in California, a major farming state.

1986

Immigration Reform and Control Act

The Immigration Reform and Control Act offered legal status to many undocumented farm workers, recognizing their important role in American agriculture.

2010

Establishment of National Farm Workers Day

National Farm Workers Day was established to honor the efforts of farm workers, coinciding with Cesar Chavez's birthday on March 31.

How to Celebrate National Farm Workers Day

1 Visit a local farm

Take a day to visit a local farm and learn about the work that goes into growing the food you eat. Talk to the farmers and ask them questions about their lives, and thank them for their hard work.

2 Volunteer at a farm

Find a local farm that offers volunteer opportunities and help out for the day. You can do anything from picking produce, helping with animal care, or just lending a hand with whatever tasks need to be done.

3 Share your appreciation

Send cards or gifts to farmers in your area to express your appreciation for their hard work. A handwritten note or even a small gift can mean a lot.

4 Organize a fundraiser

Organize a fundraising event for an organization that supports farm workers' rights. This could be as small as a bake sale or car wash, or as large as a dinner or silent auction.

5 Educate others

The best way to show your appreciation for farm workers is to educate others about the struggles they face every day. Share stories on social media, talk to people in your community, or even start an educational program in your school.

Why National Farm Workers Day is Important

Farm workers are the backbone of the agricultural industry

Agriculture is essential to the production of food, and without farm workers, farmers wouldn't be able to raise livestock or crops. Across the world, nearly 1 billion people rely on agriculture for their livelihood, so it's no surprise that farm workers deserve recognition and respect for their hard work and dedication.

It honors those who have worked hard

National Farm Workers Day pays homage to the countless individuals who have put in years of hard work to ensure that we can continue to enjoy an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. From harvesting crops to taking care of animals, these individuals go through a tremendous amount of labor just so we can have something delicious on our plates!

It raises awareness about their rights

National Farm Workers Day not only celebrates the contributions of farm workers, but it also serves as an opportunity to bring attention to issues facing them such as job insecurity, unfair wages, and dangerous working conditions. By raising awareness about these issues, hopefully one day all farm workers will be respected and treated fairly in recognition for all they do.