Every year, thousands of mothers leave their loved ones in search of better job opportunities to provide a brighter future for their families. Daría and Isidra are two such women who travel north from their communities in Mexico to the Eastern Shore of Maryland to pick crab. They’ve done so for more than 20 seasons.
They began this journey as workers, and through their experiences they’ve become activists for dignity, fairness and equality. Both are now Migrant Defense Committee leaders, helping others —in their communities and workplaces— learn how to defend their rights.
In honor of Mother’s Day, will you join their fight for a better now and a brighter tomorrow?
Daría Rodríguez with her family in Mexico
“I have four kids. The first time I left, my youngest was just 10 months old. She is 21 now and is getting a degree in Psychology. Back then, we didn’t have a place to live, but through my effort I was able to build a house for my family —even my grandkids live there now.
I am so proud of everything I’ve been able to give them. It hasn’t been easy, but now they are proud to have a mother who knows how to work hard, knows how to fight, and knows how to keep going. A mother who can achieve anything she sets her mind to.”
— Daría.
Isidra at her daughter’s graduation
“1991 was the first year I came to pick crab, leaving my four children behind in Mexico. Everything I earned, I sent back to them. I didn’t save anything for myself. They are proud that I help other workers. We can’t just think about ourselves. We have to think about others.
One of my daughters sent me this text message last week: ‘Today, I want to give a well-deserved recognition to a woman who has taught us how to fight to get ahead. For her, nothing is impossible. Her hard work is her best introduction, and her honesty and kind heart are the keys to every solution. I admire you, I respect you, and I love you, Mom.’ My kids are my greatest gift and my biggest blessing.”
— Isidra.
