National Week of the Farmworkers wrapped up March 31st. And to celebrate the occasion intended to bring attention to farmworkers and honor their contributions, Central Washington University held a forum in which students who come from farm working backgrounds could share some of their stories. Ramiro Casas, a freshman from Prosser, WA, said he’s worked a variety of commodities, including apples, blueberries, cherries and hops.

“Recently, I was working 90 hour workweeks, I would be working from 7 p.m. to 10 a.m., and I was trying to finish my homework in the in between time.  I had to work, I had to support my family.  It was just me and my step dad working.”

Casas added those long hours contributed to the carpal tunnel syndrome he now experiences. CWU’s on-line event was designed to provide a forum for other students, faculty, and staff to understanding more about the challenges faced by students who grow up working in the farming sector.

Click Here to learn more about National Week of the Farmworkers.

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