Community Leaders, LULAC, and Lexington Families Address Tyson Foods Plant Closure and Its Impact

Lexington, Neb. — Following Tyson Foods’ announcement of its plan to close the beef processing plant in Lexington, Nebraska, community advocates, LULAC national leaders, and local families met on November 25, 2025 to discuss the consequences of the shutdown and identify immediate support needs for affected workers.

Tyson Foods reported that the closure along with a workforce reduction at its Amarillo, Texas facility is part of a national strategy to optimize operations after a difficult financial year. The company cited a $420 million loss, supply chain disruptions, tariffs affecting exports to China, the presence of screwworm infestations in cattle entering from Mexico, and the death of calves during recent harsh Nebraska winters as factors influencing its decision. Tyson representatives indicated that Amarillo will retain scaled down production because of limited competition in that region, while Lexington workers are considered to have “more options” for employment in nearby plants.

The meeting included key guests from the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), including Roman Palomares, National President; Joe Henry, State Representative overseeing LULAC interests in Omaha; and Juan Provano, National Operations. LULAC, which has collaborated with Tyson Foods for more than 25 years, has been in direct communication with the company’s Washington, D.C. representative, Nora Venegas, helping clarify the timeline and reasoning behind the closures.

Provano underscored that Tyson’s decisions were not made abruptly but stem from long-standing internal concerns. LULAC leaders emphasized their commitment to ensuring workers receive accurate information, resources, and advocacy as the shutdown progresses.

Community advocate Rocío Casanova and Lexington resident Luria Lemus, whose parents work at Tyson, provided firsthand testimony about the anxiety families are experiencing. They described rising stress levels among heads of household as well as emotional strain on children who sense the instability at home.

Local schools and nonprofits are mobilizing quickly to provide mental health support and guidance. Yet many unanswered questions remain, especially regarding whether workers can transfer to other Nebraska plants, and which employees qualify for relocation priority based on their job classification.

Tyson has stated it will continue paying wages and providing health insurance until January 20, 2026. After that date, workers may enroll in COBRA insurance.

A significant portion of the plant’s workforce is made up of non-English speakers, making access to critical information difficult. Casanova and Lemus stressed the urgent need for translated forms related to savings plans, benefits, and reemployment programs. Joe Henry also warned of the dangers facing homeowners who could be vulnerable to predatory scams during financial hardship.

Former City Councilwoman Juanita Johnson offered to help arrange a meeting between community representatives and Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen. Speakers at the meeting agreed that the state has a responsibility to protect Lexington’s economy and the well-being of families who have dedicated decades to the plant.

“This is not just a Lexington issue, it is a statewide issue,” participants emphasized. They urged the Governor’s office to explore financial assistance, workforce transition support, and protections for vulnerable families, calling the situation a humanitarian and economic crisis that demands action.

Local organizations and city leaders in Lexington are coordinating resources, but their capacity is limited. Attendees encouraged Nebraskans, especially Latino community members, to stay informed and engaged. Updates will continue through Las Voces community group, with information shared by community advocate Ben Salazar via email or at 402-731-6210.