The Poisoning of Indigenous Migrant Women Workers and Children: From Deadly Colonialism to Toxic

Globalization

Invisibility of Mexican Migrant Workers

Migrant workers are one of the most unprotected and unorganized sectors of the working class.

They are not represented in mainstream media or labor analyses.

Represented even less if they are indigenous women.

Trade liberalization has increased the exploitation and discrimination of these workers.

How did it Start? Spanish Colonization

Institutionalized assimilation Forced migration: first by colonizers then by

industrialization and agriculture modernization. Modernization and trade liberation made Mexico

open to export oriented agribusiness. Communal peasant land bought by foreign

interests

Work Conditions Mothers have to bring children to fields. Contractors for agribusiness promise good housing

and wages, but don't deliver them. Unstable houses, contaminated water, denied

healthcare, etc. Business find ways to justify bad conditions.

Effects of Pesticides The toxic chemicals cause acute and chronic health

problems. Information on toxicity hidden from workers. When laws are in place against this they are not

enforced.

Conclusion “We have to understand that globalization is not a

neutral process. It is a continuation of colonialism, a highly exploitative and unequal process in which relations based on race class and gender shape the lives of...the most unprotected and marginalized labor force – Indigenous women and their families.”

Our responsibility to know where our food comes from, and who is putting it on our table.

Gender and Agricultural Imagery: Pesticide Advertisements in the 21st Century

Agricultural Transition

Feminist discourse has mostly overlooked the standing of women in rural and agricultural space.

Agricultural media perpetuates gender stereotypes.

1950s-1970s 50s-60s- Faith in science was a defining value. 75-76- Strong male controlling environment.

Nature as adversary Absence of female imagery Emphasized chemical potency

1970's-1990's Concern over pollution and sustainability grew. 95-96- Advertising associates nature with feminine

ideals of nurture and gentleness Harmony with nature Values of stewardship to land and family Pesticide portrayed as benign or helpful to

environment

Conclusion “Both nature and females are viewed as subordinate

but critical to survival.” These advertising trends are the result of a society

where the work of women in agriculture is marginalized or unacknowledged.