August 6

Farmworker Appreciation Day

It's time to show love and gratitude for the hardworking farmworkers who make our food possible on Farmworker Appreciation Day!

Yearly Date

August 6

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Get ready to show your appreciation for the hardworking individuals who bring food to our tables on Farmworker Appreciation Day, celebrated on August 6! This day was first recognized in 2012 by the United Farm Workers organization to honor and recognize the contributions of farmworkers in providing us with fresh and nutritious produce. These workers often endure long hours, harsh weather conditions, and physically demanding tasks to ensure that we have access to healthy food. So take a moment on this day to thank a farmworker and show them how much they are valued and appreciated!

Farmworker Appreciation Day Timeline

1800s

Origins of U.S. Farmwork

Rapid growth of U.S. agriculture in the 1800s creates demand for labor, establishing a vital role for farmworkers in the nation's emerging economy.

1938

Fair Labor Standards Act

The Fair Labor Standards Act is passed, setting minimum wage, overtime pay, and child labor standards—but initially excluding farmworkers.

1960

United Farm Workers Founded

Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta form the United Farm Workers (UFW), an organization dedicated to improving conditions for farm laborers.

1975

Farm Laborer Rights

California enacts the Agricultural Labor Relations Act, granting collective bargaining rights to farmworkers—the first state to do so.

1995

Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act

New York proposes the Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act, designed to protect the rights of farmworkers by bringing them under the aegis of crucial labor laws.

2012

First Farmworker Appreciation Day

United Farm Workers establishes the first Farmworker Appreciation Day on August 6, honoring the essential contributions made by farmworkers in our food production.

How to Celebrate Farmworker Appreciation Day

1 Host a farm-to-table dinner

Show your appreciation for farmworkers by hosting a dinner made entirely from locally sourced ingredients. This not only celebrates their hard work, but also supports local farmers.

2 Volunteer at a local farm

Spend the day volunteering at a local farm and get a firsthand experience of the hard work and dedication that goes into producing the food we eat. This is a great way to show appreciation and learn about the farming industry.

3 Donate to a farmworker organization

Support farmworkers by donating to organizations that work to improve their working conditions and provide resources and support for their families. This is a meaningful way to show appreciation and make a positive impact in their lives.

4 Attend a local farmers market

Visit your local farmers market and meet the people who grow and harvest the food we eat. Not only will you be supporting local farmers, but you can also thank them for their hard work in person.

5 Share stories of farmworkers

Use social media to share stories of farmworkers and their contributions to our food system. This not only raises awareness but also shows appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

Why We Love Farmworker Appreciation Day

Farmworkers play a vital role in our food system

Whether it's harvesting crops, tending to livestock, or working on dairy farms, farmworkers are the backbone of our agricultural industry. They work tirelessly to ensure that we have access to fresh and healthy food every day.

They often face challenging conditions and low pay

Unfortunately, many farmworkers experience long hours, dangerous working conditions, and low wages. Despite the crucial role they play in our food system, these individuals often do not receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.

It gives us a chance to show our gratitude and support

Celebrating Farmworker Appreciation Day is a way for us to thank these hardworking individuals for all that they do. It's also an opportunity to advocate for better working conditions and fair treatment for farmworkers across the country. Let's show our appreciation and support for these essential workers!