Housing Challenges and Systemic Inequities Amongst Migrant Farmworkers in Vermont’s Dairy Industry

This paper investigates and addresses the housing challenges faced by migrant dairy farmworkers in the state of Vermont. Using a variety of sources, drawing from quantitative and qualitative data, topics explored include the demographics of migrant dairy farmworkers in Vermont, their housing conditions, legal and regulatory frameworks regarding housing and how these pertains to migrant dairy farmworkers. It also discusses existing policy solutions, proposals, community innovation, and recommended actions to address systemic housing challenges faced by migrant dairy farmworkers in Vermont. This research paper finds that migrant dairy farmworkers are facing systemic housing challenges due to economic pressures, immigration policy, insufficient worker protections, and cultural barriers. Addressing these deep-rooted issues is essential through collaboration on a clear, actionable plan, securing funding, and fostering a commitment to sustainable housing initiatives. This paper also finds that enacting comprehensive housing reform to improve living conditions for migrant dairy farmworkers in Vermont is necessary through the collaboration of various stakeholders, including migrant farmworkers, employers, community organizations, and policymakers in order to develop adequate, sustainable, and affordable housing solutions. The findings of this paper underscore that addressing this housing crisis is both a moral obligation, and critical for the long-term sustainability of Vermont’s dairy industry.