Supporting Immigrant Rights: May Day 2025 in Williston, Vermont

On May 1, 2025, an inspiring demonstration took place in Williston, Vermont, where thousands marched to advocate for immigrant and farmworker rights. This event, celebrated on International Workers’ Day (May Day), illustrated the ongoing struggle for justice and acknowledgment of the contributions made by immigrants, particularly in the agricultural sector.

The Context: A Need for Change

The backdrop of this rally was a troubling recent occurrence where U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents detained eight migrant farmworkers at Pleasant Valley Farms, Vermont’s largest dairy farm. This incident raised alarm not only within the affected communities but also among advocates for immigrant rights. The subsequent deportation of three of these workers—Luis Enrique Gomez-Aguiliar, Urillas Sargento, and Dani Alvarez-Perez—revealed the precarious situation many immigrants face in the U.S.

Legal and Human Rights Violations

The deportations, described by the workers’ attorney, Brett Stokes, as “without due process,” highlighted the alarming expansion of “expedited removal” authority by federal immigration officials. Initially meant for those seeking entry or unlawfully crossing the border, this policy has been leveraged to arrest individuals already living within the country. Such actions are not just a legal concern; they overwhelmingly impact the lives of individuals, families, and entire communities.

Stokes emphasized the difficulties in challenging these expedited removals, stating that appeals are virtually impossible. This undermines the rights of the detainees and raises serious questions about accountability within the immigration enforcement system.

Gathering in Solidarity

During the May Day march, participants carried banners and placards, each echoing calls for justice and comprehensive reform of immigration laws. These demonstrations have been particularly poignant in the context of Vermont’s agricultural landscape, where migrant workers make up a significant portion of the labor force.

Farmers and advocates alike expressed deep concern over the ongoing deportations, emphasizing that nearly every farm in the state relies on immigrant labor. Given that over 850 migrant farmworkers are employed year-round, the potential loss of this workforce could drastically affect Vermont’s agricultural output.

The Role of Advocacy Groups

Organizations such as Migrant Justice play a crucial role in amplifying the voices of workers and advocating for their rights. Their advocacy aims not only to raise awareness of these pressing issues but also to promote legal reforms that would provide a stable and just environment for all agricultural workers. Will Lambek, a spokesperson for Migrant Justice, pointed out that many of the detained workers have families in Vermont and that their removal could have ripple effects on these communities.

Voices from the Ground

On the day of the protest, the sentiment among participants was unified and empowering. Farmers, allies, and community members converged to share stories, experiences, and aspirations for a future where immigrant workers are treated with dignity and respect. These gatherings foster a sense of belonging and strengthen community ties, providing much-needed support in times of uncertainty.

Amanda St. Pierre, co-owner of Pleasant Valley Farms, reiterated her commitment to supporting her employees through these challenging times. Despite the company facing scrutiny after the arrests, she emphasized their adherence to both federal and state employment requirements, hoping for a resolution to the current situation.

The Larger Implications

The incidents surrounding the May Day march and the deportation of migrant workers underscore a larger national conversation regarding immigration policy and labor rights. They reflect a growing urgency for the U.S. to address the immigration system in a way that honors the contributions of all workers, particularly those in essential industries like agriculture.

As the agricultural landscape in Vermont—and the entire nation—faces potential upheaval due to workforce shortages, the voices of advocates, farmers, and communities across the state become ever more critical. The need for a comprehensive immigration reform is not just a policy issue; it is a fundamental aspect of ensuring the well-being of families, farms, and the food systems that rely on their labor.

Moving Forward

While the future of immigrant rights remains uncertain amid a changing political landscape, solidarity movements like the one seen in Williston represent a powerful stand against injustice. As these communities rally for change, the collective push for reform grows stronger, reminding us all of the essential nature of agricultural labor and the human beings who contribute to it.