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Publications
Inhospitable: San Diego Tourism and the Struggle for Fair Pay
San Diego's hospitality industry relies on a diverse, multigenerational workforce that is deeply rooted in immigrant and working-class communities. However, the individuals who keep hotels, restaurants, and event centers operational face challenging and unjust daily realities every single day. This report draws on survey data from 74 workers, along with in-depth interviews and focus groups, to document the economic and human realities of hospitality work in the region.
High Road Training for Lithium Valley: Opportunities and Challenges
On November 25, 2025, Comité Cívico del Valle (CCV), in partnership with the UC San Diego Labor Center, released High Road Training for Lithium Valley: Opportunities and Challenges, a comprehensive, data-driven analysis identifying the economic opportunities and systemic workforce barriers shaping Imperial County’s future as a global clean-energy hub. The 129-page report describes what it will take to ensure that the region’s emerging “Lithium Valley” delivers long-term, family-sustaining careers for local residents rather than repeating historic patterns of low-wage and low-opportunity employment.
Download the High Road Training for Lithium Valley Report Press Release
Download the Full Report
The High Road Training for Lithium Valley: Opportunities and Challenges Full Report
The High Road Training for Lithium Valley: Opportunities and Challenges Short Overview Summery
Labor Conditions & Challenges in the Service Industry in Imperial Valley, CA
This report explores the labor challenges and conditions workers face in Imperial County’s service industries (namely, cleaning staff and janitors, security guards, as well as maintenance and construction workers), based on 22 in-depth interviews with working-age residents. Published Fall 2024.
Labor Conditions & Challenges in the Agriculture Industry in Imperial Valley, CA
This report explores the labor challenges and conditions workers face in Imperial County’s agriculture industry (namely, produce pickers and packers) based on 41 in-depth interviews with working-age residents. Published Fall 2024.