Former Farmer Now Lends Helping Hand To Farmworkers

Omaira Munoz’s journey from Colombia, South America to becoming a dedicated Outreach Worker for Migrant Seasonal Farmworkers (MSFW) at the California Employment Development Department (EDD) is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up as the 14th of 19 children in her family, Munoz learned early on the value of hard work and perseverance growing up on her family’s coffee plantation and cattle ranch. Her upbringing shaped her unwavering commitment to helping others.

In 1981, Munoz moved to the United States, a transition that would eventually lead her to EDD, where she’s now spent over 25 years. As an EDD Employment Program Representative (EPR), Munoz has made it her mission to serve her community, particularly migrant farmworkers, many of whom face challenges in securing work, benefits, and basic human rights.

Munoz’s passion for helping farmworkers began in 2006 when she took on the role of Outreach Worker for Northern California. “As an outreach worker, I saw the opportunity to come in contact face to face with the farmworkers,” Munoz said.

It was a decision that would shape her career and life, allowing her to connect directly with those who work in the fields, often unseen and unheard.

For Munoz, the most rewarding part of her job is witnessing the transformation in the lives of those she helps. “Guiding a farmworker to become self-sufficient…to learn how to file, or certify for their own UI benefits,” Munoz said. “Many of the farmworkers don’t read or write, and don’t even know if their wages were paid correctly.”

Whether helping farmworkers understand their rights, access training, or navigate the complicated world of unemployment benefits, Munoz is committed to providing them with the tools they need to succeed.

Munoz’s work isn’t without its challenges. Farmworkers often struggle with language barriers and a lack of resources.

“The most recent challenge is with the H-2A job orders, some employers take more than a week to respond to our referral. I want to establish a good relationship with the employers by offering them my service or collaboration in an effort to generate more jobs for farmworkers,” Munoz said.

Despite these obstacles, Munoz continues to advocate for farmworkers’ rights, including their right to fair wages, proper working conditions, and access to healthcare.

Munoz’s impact upon her customers is not just professional, but personal. She has been the bridge that connects farmworkers to crucial services from health benefits, low-cost medical care, housing, utility assistance, food banks, and legal aid. Farmworkers can also receive information to assist them with labor rights and filing complaints.

“I was able to refer four women’s sexual harassment complaints to the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH),” Munoz said.

Her advocacy has led to better working conditions and more opportunities for farmworkers to thrive beyond the fields. Through all the years and all the challenges, Munoz’s heart remains with the people she serves.

“Outreach to the farmworkers is rewarding. Learning directly from the farmworkers about their culture and overcoming obstacles and why they do what they do,” Munoz said.

Munoz’s work is a testament to the power of compassion, understanding, and a deep commitment to justice for all.