More than 35,000 signatures gathered during online petition against Ag giant
BAKERSFIELD, CA – When the United Farm Workers and its supporters launched an online petition campaign against Giumarra Vineyards Corp. on Labor Day, we didn’t expect to blow past our initial goal of 25,000 signed petitions. But we did, sky high! The online community responded and overwhelming signed the petition demanding that the king of table grapes lives up to its label, ‘Nature’s Partner,’ and start treating farm workers with dignity and respect.
Giumarra farm workers sought UFW and public support after Giumarra started to retaliate against them for supporting union efforts. The corporation, which has had a long history of intimidating and bullying its workers, has had two workers die from heat-related illness while laboring in its fields. According to farm worker Flavio Duque, he has been literally forced to race against other workers under triple digit temperatures to avoid being suspended.Giumarra also has abused and threatend to suspend or fire farm workers who support the UFW. At 10 a.m. on Friday, a delegation formed by UFW representatives, labor leaders, local elected officials and farm workers will be delivering the petition results at Giumarra’s offices in Bakersfield. WHEN: Friday, Oct. 23, meeting at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Giumarra Vineyards Corp., 11220 Edison Hwy, Bakersfield
WHO: A delegation formed by UFW representatives, labor leaders and others
WHAT: More than 35,000 petition signatures will be turned in at Giumarra’s office