In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, Holmes’ Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies offers an insightful perspective that challenges us to reconsider the human costs of agricultural practices. This ethnographic study delves into the lives of Mexican immigrant laborers of the Triqui ethnic group in the United States, highlighting the harsh realities of their work in the fields and the systemic inequalities they face.
The Human Dimension of Sustainability
Sustainability is often discussed in terms of environmental impact and resource conservation. However, Holmes’ work reveals equally important human aspects of sustainability. Many construction sites now owe migrant laborers back wages. As of December 2023, an estimated 208,000 workers across the U.S. are owed millions of dollars in unpaid wages by companies. People are not worried that immigrant laborers will be very forceful in demanding their wages because immigrant laborers don’t have enough money or rights to defend what they are entitled to. The exploitation and health hazards faced by migrant laborers are a stark reminder that sustainable practices must include the fair and humane treatment of all workers.
The Invisible Labor Force
The contributions of much of the labor force in the food supply chain are often overlooked by society. When their contributions are overlooked, many laborers do not receive the compensation and rights they deserve. Just like in real life, when we buy a drink, we ignore the people who make the paper cups and drink machines, we only notice the people who make the drinks. We are more inclined to give tips to employees whose work we can see. As a result, more laborers are left with only a few stipulated tips.
A Call to Action
Holmes calls on consumers, policymakers and businesses to take action to adopt a more holistic view of sustainability. It urges us to consider the well-being of all those involved in the production process and to support policies and practices that ensure their health, dignity and rights. Guarantee that more of the workforce can be treated equally and that their basic livelihoods are not adversely affected.
Adopting a holistic approach to sustainability
As we move forward, it is critical to integrate these lessons into our understanding of sustainable development. Allow every laborer to be treated equally and humanely, protecting the rights they deserve. By doing so, we can create a sustainable future world where environmental health and human well-being are inseparable and equally important.