By: Kevin Romo, 2026 ITF Intern at Hispanic Federation
This summer with Student Action with Farmworkers (SAF), I learned that one of the biggest issues facing farmworkers is not only the difficult conditions they work in, but also how often they are overlooked when policies and emergency plans are created. Before this internship, I knew farmworkers faced challenges such as long hours, low wages, language barriers, and limited access to resources because my own family has worked in agriculture. However, my experience with SAF reinforced that these problems become even more severe during climate disasters and emergencies. Farmworkers, many of whom are immigrants or H-2A workers, are often among the last groups considered when communities prepare for hurricanes, flooding, extreme heat, or other disasters.
Throughout my internship with the Hispanic Federation, I had the opportunity to work on projects that focused on disaster preparedness, environmental justice, and community outreach. One project that had a significant impact on me was helping develop policy recommendations to improve emergency preparedness for farmworkers and Latino communities in North Carolina. As I researched existing policies and listened to community concerns, I realized that many farmworkers do not even know the exact location of the camps where they live and work. Some labor camps have inaccurate addresses or are difficult for emergency responders to locate. In an emergency, this can delay rescue efforts and place workers and their families at greater risk.
Another issue that stood out was the fear many immigrant families experience when seeking emergency assistance. Language barriers, limited access to information, and concerns about immigration enforcement can discourage people from using shelters or requesting help during disasters. These barriers show that disaster preparedness is not only about responding to storms but also about ensuring that every community can safely access emergency services. Although I could not solve these problems on my own, I was able to contribute in meaningful ways. I researched state policies, translated environmental and public health issues into easy-to-understand materials, and helped develop recommendations that could improve emergency preparedness for farmworkers. I also participated in community outreach efforts that connected Latino families with information and resources. By helping make complicated information more accessible, I hope the materials we created will allow more people to understand their rights, prepare for emergencies, and advocate for safer communities.
This experience also strengthened my interest in public policy. As a Political Science major, I have always been interested in how laws affect people's daily lives, but this internship showed me the direct connection between policy decisions and the safety of vulnerable communities. Policies regarding emergency planning, housing, language access, and worker protections can have life-changing consequences. Seeing these issues firsthand reinforced my desire to work in public service and advocate for communities whose voices are often unheard.
As I return home, I plan to continue exploring solutions to these challenges. Whether through future internships, research, or a career in public policy, I want to support policies that improve disaster preparedness, expand language access, and ensure farmworkers are included in emergency planning. I also hope to share what I learned with my community and encourage others to recognize the essential role farmworkers play in producing the food that reaches our tables every day.
My experience with SAF has changed the way I view advocacy. I learned that meaningful change often begins with listening to communities, understanding the barriers they face, and working alongside them to develop practical solutions. This summer reminded me that advocacy is not always about making large, immediate changes. Sometimes it is about educating others, strengthening partnerships, and helping create policies that can improve lives over time. I will carry these lessons with me as I continue my education and work toward a career dedicated to serving underserved communities and advancing equitable public policy.