On April 1, the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) and the Aramark Corporation issued a joint statement to announce that they have reached an "agreement to to address farmworker wages and working conditions in the tomato fields of Florida."
The CIW press release on this historic event notes that: "Similar to those previously reached between the CIW and other food service and restaurant groups, the agreement establishes a supplier code of conduct developed and implemented with input from farmworkers themselves. ARAMARK will also pay a 1.5-cent premium for every pound of tomatoes picked, with the premium to be distributed directly to harvesters."
The Rev. Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) issued a statement in response to the agreement that begins: "On behalf of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), I commend the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) and Aramark Corporation for forging an agreement that advances human rights for farmworkers and takes us a step further in creating a food system that ensures the well-being of all.
"As Christians we are marking Holy Week, remembering the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This agreement comes as a sign of new life amidst death and hope amidst suffering."
Learn more about the Presbyterian Church's Fair Food Campaign.