Ricardo Ramon García was an inspiring community leader. He dedicated his life to advocating for the civil rights of farmworkers in the Yakima Valley. In 1979, he co-founded Radio KDNA, a Spanish language radio station that provides news and education. He was also an extraordinary partner of the PNASH Center.
García was one of four founding members of El Projecto Bienestar (EPB and ‘The Well Being Project’). EPB is a partnership that continues to serve WA state's Yakima Valley. Since 2002, with a grant from NIOSH/NIEHS, this community-research partnership has launched dozens of research and education programs, partnering with the farmworker community. Another founding member of EPB, Dr. Matthew Keifer, shares:
"As researchers, we test new ideas. And in doing so we need partners in the community. Work in agriculture is among the most dangerous jobs in the US and farmworkers are an important but vulnerable worker group. Ricardo understood this. He worked with us at the PNASH Center to promote safety and test new approaches for informing the Latino farmworkers east of the Cascades - where Radio KDNA ruled the Latino airwaves. However, he wouldn't play if he did not see the benefit for his community. He was a powerful figure with a strategic mind and his heart was clearly devoted to the welfare of his people. In fact, he helped us see more clearly where the interests of the workers lay. We respected and admired him for that commitment. He was an honest broker, a great partner, an admirable man and a remarkable leader. He will be missed."
Today, PNASH continues to benefit from a close partnership with Radio KDNA, under the leadership of Ms. Elizabeth Torres, Director of Operations. Like Mr. García, Ms. Torres has stepped up as a strong research partner, representing the interests of her community. Ms. Torres shares:
"Ricardo’s passion, vision, and leadership serve as a beacon of inspiration for all of us. With his unwavering commitment to the Latino community and to Northwest Communities Education Center (NCEC)/Radio KDNA he touched the lives of many, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations to come. I had the privilege to work with Ricardo first as the Development Specialist at NCEC/Radio KDNA, and later as the Research Project Coordinator for El Proyecto Bienestar a project focus on environmental justices and occupational health. Ricardo believed the community had the right to have access to clean water, clean air, and free from pesticides. That’s one of many reasons El Proyecto Bienestar started (in partnership with other great leaders that had the same passion). We will continue to foster Ricardo’s vision with the same passion to ensure his legacy will continue for many years to come."
Mr. García passed away in March 2024, but leaves a lasting legacy. Learn more about his remarkable life in his local obituary, published in the Yakima Herald Republic.
