May 16, 2023
Latinx/Hispanic farmers are an underrepresented group with the largest number of farm operators in the US. However, agricultural educators have encountered challenges in identifying Latinx farmers in Pennsylvania and consequently, in meeting their needs. This study contributed to improved agricultural programming by offering an exploratory overview of the experiences of Latinx farmers and Extension educators in the Commonwealth. Qualitative research interviews were conducted with Latinxs at different stages of their farming journey, and with educators with experience in agriculture programming and outreach to Latinxs. Both groups discussed challenges they believe Latinx farmers face due to their ethnicity and provided recommendations to better serve the Latinx farming population. Based on the findings, agricultural educators could support Latinx farmers by developing statewide programming, including programming in Spanish, having employers allocate a percentage of educators’ responsibilities to connecting with this audience, creating a Latinx farmers’ network, partnering with organizations connected with Latinx farmers, participating in cultural competency training, and promoting stories of success.
June 23, 2023
October 29, 2021
Hispanic farmers and farmworkers face access barriers to agricultural programming that need to be addressed to more effectively “reach and teach.” Over a 1-year period, 22 to 25 agricultural educators attended a three-workshop training series focused on increasing knowledge and skills for planning, designing, advertising, and delivering agricultural programs inviting to Hispanic farmers and farmworkers. The workshop series included an expert on the science of inclusion, a specialist in Latino community studies, and several representatives from organizations with long histories of connecting with Hispanic farming audiences. Through guided activities and facilitated discussion, participants developed strategies for creating programming welcoming to the Hispanic farming community.
October 15, 2021
Despite accounting for 18% of the total US population, Latinos hold just 5.3% of executive positions (Swerzenski et al., 2020). This article will outline the potential reasons for this underrepresentation as well as discuss ways that organizations can address this issue through the creation of a more inclusive and welcoming environment for Latinos to take on leadership roles.
