A recent trip to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and the Coalition of Immokalee Workers, organized by Barry University’s Honors Program and Biology Department, gave students an unforgettable opportunity to connect with both the natural beauty of the Everglades and the powerful work of community organizers fighting for social justice right here in South Florida.

The day began with an immersive walk through the swamp preserve, where students experienced Florida’s unique ecosystem firsthand. From spotting alligators to seeing great herons in their natural habitat, the sanctuary offered breathtaking scenery and a deeper appreciation for environmental conservation.

Later, students shared lunch with members of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers, one of Barry’s longtime community partners and a nationally recognized organization advocating for farmworker rights. Through meaningful conversations, students learned about the impact of conscious consumer choices and how ethically sourced food can support dignity and fairness for workers.

One of the most moving parts of the day was touring the CIW’s Modern Day Slavery Exhibit, which highlights real cases of forced labor and human rights violations that occurred in recent years. The experience challenged students to reflect on the ongoing fight for justice and the role each person can play in creating change.

This trip was supported in part by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, NEXTGEN Program, award 2023-70440-40161.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.