Pressure on Publix to Pay Penny for Farmworkers

On this Labor Day weekend, we are reminded there is still much progress to make. As we prepare to enjoy Labor Day tomorrow and celebrate our Monday off with our union brothers and sisters, there is an action we can all take today to help workers in need and workers without a voice.

On the campaign trail, I pointed out there are some things more important than a campaign. That was definitely true when I joined the Coalition of Immokalee Workers as they broke their 6 day Fast for Fair Food outside the Publix corporate headquarters in Lakeland back in March. It was truly one of those magical moments that will stay with you for a lifetime.

It was so inspirational to see the farmworkers – the poorest of the poor, the most oppressed and facing language barriers, harassment, fear and intimidation – standing against one of the most powerful corporations in Florida. Kerry Kennedy and Ethel Kennedy came down and both participated in the 3 mile procession march before the event. Over 1,000 people in the 80+ degree heat for nearly 4 hour event after the 2-3 hour march. That’s inspiration. To learn more about the CIW, visit their website.

We chanted “We’ll be back” that day as a warning to Publix if they did not do the right thing and provide an extra penny per pound for tomatoes picked by the Immokalee Workers. Publix has not done the right thing.

In response, today the Coalition of Immokalee Workers, a farmworkers’ rights group, will continue their pressure on Publix with protests at locations across the state. In Orlando, the protest will be at the Publix at 1400 East Colonial Drive at 4pm.

It is sad to report that this group has pressured Publix for years for this one penny per pound increase to improve the lives of those farmworkers in the fields picking tomatoes. Many of these workers make less than $12,000 a year.

It’s beyond time for Publix to come to the table and join the Immokalee Workers for the “Meal of Justice.” Our brothers and sisters need us now more than ever.

Keep the pressure on Publix. Stand with the Immokalee Workers. And never stop fighting for justice.