The Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs (OCHA), in partnership with the Oregon Historical Society and the Gresham Historical Society, hosted a celebration designating August 4 as Bracero Program Day, which recognize and honor thousands of Mexican nationals who supported the economy of the State of Oregon and national wartime efforts through the Emergency Farm Labor Supply Program, also known as the Bracero Program. August 4th is designated Bracero Program Day in the State of Oregon as a result of House Bill 2955.
“Today, we honor the incredible resilience and contributions of the Braceros, whose hard work laid the foundation for Oregon's agricultural success.” Said Representative Ricki Ruiz (Oregon HD-50). “Their legacy continues to inspire us. The Bracero Program is a critical chapter in our state's history, reminding us of the sacrifices made by Mexican farmworkers and their families, and all the work we still need to do. We must continue to recognize and support their contributions."
The Bracero Program, signed on August 4, 1942, and running through 1964, was a contractual agreement between Mexico and the United States of America, to address the labor shortage in the U.S. due to WWII and Mexico’s unemployment issues.
The agreement states Mexico would send farm workers, called Braceros, stemming from brazo meaning arms in Spanish for the workers who labored with their arms and hands, to the United States. In return, the U.S. would create a set of protocols to protect the Braceros from discrimination and provide adequate housing, food, health care, and wages. Instead, Braceros were met with exploitation, discrimination, withholding of salaries, and the threat of deportation if they did not comply with farmers’ often-illegal demands.
Nationally, more than 4.5 million Mexicans participated in the Bracero program. More than 15,000 Braceros came to Oregon over the years, many still calling the Pacific Northwest their home today. To this day, education and recognition of the Bracero Program remains near-nonexistent with a dwindling number of Braceros continuing to fight for stolen wages. A study by Rural Migration News out of U.C. Davis estimates former Braceros are owed as much as $500 million with accumulated interest of their garnished wages.
Today, Mexican farmworkers are the backbone of Oregon’s agricultural industry.
“As the former Chair and current commissioner of OCHA, I am proud to commemorate Bracero Program Day and celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of our Mexican community.” Said Dr. Melina Moran. “This day is a poignant reminder of the resilience and perseverance of our ancestors, and it inspires us to continue advocating for equity, representation, and opportunities for all Hispanic Oregonians. Together, we honor our past, embrace our present, and look forward to a brighter future for everyone.”
Thank you, for Amazon, Dexcom, and the OACO’s Health Equity Team for sponsoring this celebration of Bracero Program Day.
