The Rev. Margarita Romo, who has spent decades helping community members, migrant farmworkers and immigrants in Florida, is being honored with induction into the state’s Civil Rights Hall of Fame.
Romo, 76, is the founder and executive director of Farmworkers Self-Help, Inc., which is based in Dade City, Fla. Her community work began in 1971.
A formal ceremony will be held in April. On Tuesday, Romo called news of the honor “bittersweet” because much work remains for people to have better health care, education and working conditions on farms. Those were just some of the concerns she discussed.
“My whole thing from day one has been to share anything and everything that I learn so other people can be their own voice,” she said.
The state announced in late February that it is recognizing four people this year for significant contributions and leadership in human and civil rights.
State officials highlighted her efforts to improve Tommytown, a farm worker neighborhood in Dade City. They also talked about her work in helping community members in Pasco and Hernando counties.
When Romo learned of the news on Feb. 27, she did not believe it.
María Rodriguez, executive director of the Florida Immigrant Coalition, praised Romo for her persistence when it comes to helping people and discussing policy at the state Legislature.
“Every session, she is there, bringing the voice of those affected to lawmakers,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve seen how her faith has really deepened her conviction for justice.”
For Farmworkers Self-Help volunteer Marie Mears, the honor is a testament to Romo’s more than 40 years of advocating for social justice.
“She lives basically as she preaches,” Mears said. “She would gladly take anything she owns and give it to others.”
Even as Romo talked about the honor on Tuesday, thoughts of helping community members who are facing the closure of a school filled her mind.
She pointed out that the school primarily serves African Americans and that cooperation means working together.
“I can’t grasp it,” she said, referring to the honor. “I’m not very good about this kind of stuff. I serve one God. That’s it. What I do I do for Him.”