Rural & Migrant Ministry, Justice for Farmworkers Campaign
Albany, New York
Rural & Migrant Ministry works for the creation of a just, rural New York State through:
- Nurturing leadership development
- Standing with the disenfranchised
- Changing unjust systems and structures
Our goal in Albany is simple: protections for farmworkers equal to those enjoyed by other workers.
The intern's primary responsibilities will pertain to RMM's legislative agenda, which is to remove the legal exclusions that degrade and imperil farmworkers. We will perform research on relevant issues, educate key stakeholders and build relationships with allies to be ready to jump-start the campaign.
To overcome their exceptionally vulnerable situation, farmworkers need allies to ensure that their voices are heard in their communities and in the halls of government. The JFW intern will play a crucial rule by building relationships with potential allies and engaging them in the campaign.
Responsibilities may include: communication with legislators; presentations to potential ally organizations; design of campaign materials, media outreach, helping to develop campaign strategy, and research on aspects of the agricultural industry. Another likely responsibility will be to work with the Executive Director to develop and implement a request for New York State funding to bolster RMM's work of developing rural networks. Level of direct interaction with farmworkers will depend in part on Spanish language proficiency.
SKILLS:
The most qualified applicant will be a self-starter who shares RMM's commitment to farmworker empowerment and justice. Daily work will require excellent writing and communication skills. The Justice for Farmworkers intern should feel comfortable moving among the various RMM constituencies and allies, including faith, rural, youth/students, and organized labor, as well as among Albany insiders.
Some travel will be necessary and a driver's license is required.
Desired qualifications:
- Very basic knowledge of state & federal labor laws
- Previous campaign experience including presentations, organizing, etc.
- Research experience
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office
- Spanish language skills (not required)