As we take in the landscapes of Colorado, from the sweeping Eastern Plains to the fertile valleys of the Western Slope, we are reminded of the people who help sustain our communities: our agricultural workers.
These dedicated men and women rise with the sun and often work long past dusk. Their labor, steadfast, skilled, and unrelenting, feeds not only our families but communities across the nation. Every ear of corn, crate of peaches, bale of hay, and gallon of milk carries the story of their hard work and unwavering commitment.
Agricultural work is not easy. It demands strength, endurance, and resilience in the face of unpredictable weather, economic challenges, and long hours. Yet our agricultural workers persevere with quiet dignity, rarely seeking recognition. On Farmworker Appreciation Day, August 6, and every day, we take a moment to honor them.
Their contribution to Colorado’s economy is immense, generating billions in revenue and sustaining rural communities. But more importantly, their work supports our way of life. Agricultural workers make it possible for all families to gather around the table, for children to be nourished, and for local economies to thrive.
Recognizing the vital role these workers play, the Colorado Department of Agriculture established the Agricultural Worker Services Program to support and uplift this essential workforce. This initiative was created to ensure that agricultural workers across the state have better access to the resources, services, and protections they need to thrive—on and off the job.
The Agricultural Worker Services Program focuses on connecting workers with healthcare, housing support, safety training, labor rights education, and other critical services. By working in partnership with local organizations and community leaders, the program aims to strengthen the well-being of workers and the communities they help sustain.
To our agricultural workers: thank you. Your sweat, sacrifice, and skill form the backbone of our food system. You embody the spirit of perseverance, pride, and community that makes Colorado strong.
Let us take a moment to reflect on the incredible people behind every harvest and every meal. And let us commit, both individually and collectively, to supporting and uplifting agricultural workers now and in the years to come.