New Digital Exhibit – Remembering the Citrus Workers

            Last summer, I did a missionary internship on the Yakama Reservation in the state of Washington. Even though it wasn’t the main reason for going, I saw the faces of the people involved with producing the food I eat each and every day. I even got to do some of the work myself – shoveling, digging, planting, watering, weeding, picking – I experienced and learned what it takes to bring the food I take for granted to the supermarket shelves.  As a result, my eyes were opened to the very real world that exists behind the scenes in the food industry.

            This is why, when my supervisor gave me the opportunity to create a digital exhibit for the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame at Florida Southern College’s McKay Archives Center, I knew exactly what my topic would be – Remembering the Citrus Workers. I wanted to bring a very intentional spotlight to the many citrus workers that were never recognized for their dedication to the citrus industry. Whether they were men or women, African-American, Hispanic or Caucasian, young or old, they are part of the unique history involved in producing one of the most cherished products on the market. They deserve to be thanked for their contribution because, as I now know, I’m sure it was not easy.

            So, at last, please join me in Remembering the Citrus Workers. 

Written by Selys Rivera

Student Fellow at the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame

In partnership with Florida Southern College’s McKay Archives Center