Harvesting Hope

Abstract

This 2018 report reviews the organizing model of the Pioneer Valley Workers Center (PVWC), an organization based in Western Massachusetts that builds the collective power of immigrants and workers. It illustrates how the PVWC practices participatory democracy and solidarity. The report also discusses the challenges facing its organizational structures and campaigns, including its Worker Committees, a decision-making body composed mainly of immigrant workers; Sanctuary in the Streets, a rapid response network against workplace abuse, the deportation apparatus, and hate crimes; and an ongoing campaign in solidarity with Lucio Peréz, an undocumented Guatemalan man who defied deportation and took sanctuary at a local congregation.