“Rape in the Fields” (which originally aired on Frontline) sheds light on multiple rape cases filed by undocumented immigrants. These are women who eked out a living in orchards and factories against their supervisors, foremen, and even their co-workers.
We learn as the documentary progresses that the system failed many women. We also learn, sadly, that most of the accused eventually got off scot-free or went into hiding. The crew behind this documentary bravely tracked them down. Their methods included modern sources such as Facebook along with good old-fashioned investigative journalism.
The film shines a light on the abuses. Watching the accused try to justify their actions—against the countless women who trusted and worked under them for the sake of their families—will make viewers squirm with unease. The victim-blaming is equally alarming. But it’s more troubling to know the uncertain fate these women faced if they spoke out against their abusers. We see many threatened with job loss and/or certain deportation if they made their plight known.
There are many heartbreaking and disturbing moments in “Rape in the Fields,” as each case is worse than the other and the number of victims is multiplied. The film shows many hard-to-watch scenes. From cowardly employers, to the accused who pass distasteful comments against the victims, each scene showcases how vile and disgusting the system—as well as humans—can truly be.
The film highlights the lack of accountability. Rapists often got a clean slate due to the workplace escaping liability, depriving many women of justice. Their only hope is somebody who will trust them and not abandon their case. As a kind lawyer puts it, “In such a situation, it is always best to believe the woman.” But reality plays differently, as hardly anybody takes the word of those who are suffering and helpless. In fact, a lot of these cases went unnoticed until this documentary shed light on the same.
“Rape in the Fields” isn’t for the faint hearted due to the sexual assault it delves into with much detail. However, it is also of utmost importance. It bring this issue to the attention of viewers and is a must watch.
*”Rape in the Fields” is currently available to watch on iTunes.
