Defying threats by Gerawan Farming, the DC City Council on Tuesday unanimously passed a resolution calling on the California grape and tree fruit grower to honor contracts with its workers and respect their right to organize. "This isn't just a DC or California issue, it's an American issue," said DC Council member – and lead resolution sponsor -- Anita Bonds at an early-morning rally on the steps of the Wilson Building. "It's the right thing to do." Click below to read more...
Gerawan had threatened “repercussions” if the Council passed the resolution. The United Farm Workers members and allies had marched over from Grover Norquist’s offices on 12th Street. Norquist’s Americans for Tax Reform, through its Center for Worker Freedom, has supported the Fresno-based company’s efforts to avoid millions of dollars in pay increases and other benefits for its 5,000 workers. “Norquist and Gerawan can run, but you can't hide,” said Metro Council president Jos Williams. “"We won't stop until justice is done." - report/photo by Chris Garlock