Role of Jamaican Migrant Farm Workers in the Ontario Agri-food Industry

Abstract

This research explores the pivotal role of Jamaican migrant farm workers within Ontario's agri-food industry, contextualized within the framework of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) established in 1966. Highlighting the historical evolution of the program and its impact on the agricultural labour landscape, the study investigates how processes such as digitization, consolidation, and financialization influence labour practices and the experiences of these workers. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews, the study reveals the complexities of labour relationships shaped by racial capitalism, illustrating how systemic inequalities persist within the industry. The findings illuminate the critical challenges faced by Jamaican migrant workers, including exploitation and marginalization, against the backdrop of changing agricultural dynamics. This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio-economic factors affecting migrant workers but also emphasizes the need for equitable policies that address historical injustices and promote better working conditions within the agri-food sector.