It is not just the small family farmer whose future is at risk because of the encroachment of so-called factory farms. For over 40 years, the United Farm Workers organization, founded by Cesar Chavez, has been calling attention to and fighting for the rights of farm workers who work in the fields of these big agribusinesses. Under Chavez’ leadership the UFW focused national attention on the dangers of pesticide use on the farm workers. Today the UFW continues the work that he began.
As they prepare to celebrate the birthday of Cesar Chavez, the UFW is calling upon all California voters to support Senate Bill 879. In the non-violent tradition of Cesar Chavez, it is asking that voters write to their state senators asking them to vote for the California Pesticide Enforcement Bill, sponsored by Senator Martha Escutia.
Additionally, the UFW is exposing Gallo of Sonoma for failing to ratify a labor contract with their farm workers who haven’t had a pay raise in over two years. Pressure is being put on restaurants like Buca di Beppo to stop serving Gallo wine until the labor dispute is resolved.
It is good to see that the United Farm Workers are continuing to speak out for all agricultural workers in the United States.
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