Produce and Protests: Coalition of Immokalee Workers

There is something magical about collective, civil action. As Unitarian Universalists, we lift-up our banners of social justice and proudly lend our voices to make lasting change in the world. While a single voice can spark change, a chorus of voices, united in the fight for change, can become a movement. On August 12, 2018, members of my church and I joined with the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) to protest Wendy's and our regional grocery chain, Publix.

Eleven members of First Unitarian Church of Orlando standing in a group at the protest

I have not spent a dime in a Publix supermarket for months now. Despite the frighteningly-recent, tragic, gun violence, that occurred at Pulse Night Club and Stoneman Douglas High School, the Florida-based grocery chain decided to back Adam Putnam, a pro-gun, gubernatorial candidate. Publix had already lost my financial support; then I learned about their opposition to the CIW Fair Food Program.

Wendy's has been another long-standing hold-out and the last of the major fast food chains to oppose the Fair Food Program.

What's the cost of this life-changing, life-saving program? Retailers would pay an additional penny per pound on the produce covered by the fair food program. These companies can find mountains of cash to back suspect politicians, but cannot find deep enough pockets when asked to support the moral cause.

There's something oddly dissatisfying about a personal boycott.

Michael and Joe standing with banners and Joe trying to look serious

I know I am making a change in the world but it is difficult to discern if the company hears my protest. Has my financial political action been swallowed up by a run on BOGO soup? This is why I relish the opportunity to join with others who share my causes. A 50-person picket line typically brings the store manager out for a chat. The message we send is unambiguous and there's no financial exchange (or lack-there of) necessary to send the message. Boycotts are effective but typically only possible for those with privilege. Picket lines are free.