The Limits of Legal Opportunity: The Puzzling State of Dairy Farmworkers Unionization in New York.

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Abstract

Why have NY dairy farmworkers not yet been able to take advantage of their newfound right to unionize, despite their formative role in passing the 2019 FLFLPA? Drawing on participant observation and 15 interviews with undocumented workers, this paper argues that longstanding mistrust of unions is the primary barrier. This mistrust has been exacerbated by unions’ perceived exploitative and top-down outreach, negative experiences with Mexican corporatist unions, and disagreement with the UFW's support for the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. The case demonstrates that “legal opportunities" alone are insufficient for unionization. Effective campaigns require strategic organizing and alliances between unions and community organizations that build on preexisting community work. This necessitates overcoming cultural clashes through solidarity and shared decision-making, positioning unionization not as an end in itself, but as a means within a broader movement to address the interlocking oppressions of farmwork.

Author

• Sergio Saravia, Syracuse University