School Library Journal – September, 2003 Filmed in Oregon’s Willamette Valley during the summer of 2002, Justice on the Table documents the conditions farm workers face, both while working in the fields and in their living accommodations. Initiated by the nonprofit Farmworker Justice Coalition, the farm labor issues are give clarity and passion with the collaboration of the Union for United Treeplanters and Farmworkers of the Northwest. Those familiar with “Strangers at the Gates” (Univ. of California Press, 2001) and “Latinos: Remaking America (Univ. of California Press, 2002), or the earlier “Strangers Among Us: Latino Lives in a Changing America (Knopf, 1998) will be delighted with this visual story that brings home some of theses experiences to a wider audience. The video’s educational focus includes issues of immigration facing Mexican Latinos as well as contributions made by immigrant workers. The fast-moving scenes cover crop field activity, living areas of immigrants, and volunteers and supporters seeking to raise awareness of the injustices farm workers face while at the same time contributing to Oregon’s economic prosperity. While no sources are given for many of the facts offered (e.g. Farm worker’s average life expectancy is 48 years, etc.), the video will stimulate much discussion and may encourage research. Narration via real people on the front lines gives authenticity to the remarks. The live-action footage and excellent aural quality will help to keep the audience’s attention. A good choice for school and public library collections where there is a need for information on the current immigrant experience. – Larry Hommerding, Fort Meyers Beach Public Library, FL Library Journal – August, 2003 This tape aims to present an introducation to the plight of farm laborers. It is told from the point of view of union organizers and workers in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. The information is divided into sections on background, working and living conditions, immigration issues, worker contributions, and the fight for justcie. The video provides statistics on wage rates, life expectancy, and hours of labor. Commentary from advocacy group representatives and farm workers reveals their struggle to obtain the legal protections afforded other workers in the United States. The unionization efforts are highlighted along with a discussion of the economic and cultural contributions of the workers. Justice on the Table succeeds as an overview and discussion starter and is a worthwhile purchase for labor collections. – Joan Pedzich