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June 6, 2008
VIDEO SUMMARY:
In response to fears that stricter enforcement of immigration play NewsHour video laws will create a shortage of farm workers, the U.S. agricultural industry has headed to Mexico to recruit temporary — and legal — migrant workers. Visa restrictions for temporary “guest worker” status have been loosened, allowing Mexican labor contractors to hire Mexican laborers and deliver them to U.S. growers, filling the gap caused by fewer U.S. farmers depending on illegal immigrants. In this video, Jeffrey Kaye of KCET-Los Angeles reports on the farm industry’s recruitment attempts and worker shortfalls.

SELECTED QUOTES:

“We have a definite labor shortage problem caused by the issue of 9/11, which, of course, shutting down the borders. It’s also caused a problem in which the Congress has not passed immigration policies or immigration laws to deal with the workers that are here.” - Manuel Cunha, Jr., Nisei (California) Farmers League
“Last year, we sent in like 2,000 workers. And this year, we’re going to send like 4,000 workers.” Rene Urbano, Labor Contractor

WARM-UP QUESTIONS:
Why are Mexican workers eager to work in the U.S.? Why aren’t there enough U.S. farm workers to meet the needs of U.S. growers? Would you be willing to work all day harvesting vegetables for $14 per hour? $8 per hour? $4 per hour?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What are some reasons a U.S. farmer might prefer to hire an illegal immigrant instead of a legal guest worker, or vice-versa. What possible pitfalls await guest workers in the U.S.? What are the advantages and disadvantages to an illegal immigrant in becoming a legal guest worker? What are reasonable or legal “rights” for migrant workers in the U.S.? Compare the workplace rights for illegal immigrants, legal guest workers and U.S. citizens. What role does our government play? What role do farm worker labor unions play? How well does the current system work? How could improved immigration laws or enforcement help Mexican workers? U.S. workers? U.S. farmers?

RESOURCES:
Transcript: Concerns Over Immigration Crackdowns Lead U.S. Farms to Recruit in Mexico
Lesson Plan and Links: Immigration Reform
Video Report: Debate Looks at Immigration Laws and Citizenship
Miller Center: National Discussion Debate Series: Immigration
United Farm Workers of America

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