Take Action Campaign Press Coverage Campaign Materials

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BACKGROUND:

Farm workers who pick tomatoes for today's fast food industry are among the poorest in our nation. They work for an average of less than $10,000 a year, while providing the food that nourishes us everyday.

In 2005, after a four year campaign led by the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) Taco Bell agreed to pay one penny more per pound for the tomatoes they use in their restaurants, creating the first pay raise in 26 years for these tomato pickers. In addition, Taco Bell agreed to a supplier code of conduct, in which farm workers would have a voice in ensuring a safe working environment.

The CIW then focused their energy on McDonald's, the world's largest fast food company. In April of 2007, McDonalds agreed to both to pay a penny more per pound for tomatoes, and to an enforceable code of conduct.

The CIW has asked Burger King to follow suit, and so far, they have refused.

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TAKE ACTION:

Take, or mail, a letter to Burger King, demanding they follow the lead of Taco Bell and McDonald's.

Plan a letter writing campaign for your church, organization, or event to invite others to sign a letter as well. You can mail them all together to save postage.

Organize a delegation of a few friends for a short visit with the management. Take a signed letter with you, explaining your concern.

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CAMPAIGN PRESS COVERAGE:

The Coalition of Immokalee Workers Speak Up! DeLand, FL - October 5th, 2007
Full account and photos
News stories in The Orlando Sentinel, Daytona News Journal Online (video), Daytona News Journal (article), Terra (in Spanish), The Ledger (in Spanish) and the DeLand Beacon

Ongoing campaign news at CIW site.

Doing It for Themselves, In These Times, May 14, 2007

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CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: