76-13 Resolution on the FARMWORKER INITIATIVE PROPOSAL

WHEREAS the California Initiative 14 is a clear and simple demand for the human and democratic rights afforded almost all other American workers 41 years ago (under the National Labor Relations Act); and

WHEREAS all people deserve the right to hold free and democratic union elections and the right to bargain collectively;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT

the legislative assembly actively support California Initiative 14, so that farmworkers will have the right to freely elect unions of their own choosing.

In practical terms this shall mean that:

A. University of Washington will attempt to organize students, particularly those at this conference, to help combat the tremendous agribusiness spending in opposition to the initiative.

B. Council will send an edited version of this resolution to appropriate district and synodical newsletters, particularly in California.

In recognition of the just need to apply economic sanctions at time to change human conditions, we the LSM-USA gathering in National Assembly follow the lead of the National Council of Churches, and the Roman Catholic Conference of Bishops in endorsing the product boycotts of all non-UFW table grapes, head lettuce and all “Modesto made” Gallo wines.

In practical terms this shall mean that all voting delegates will urge a “no boycotted products” policy at their campus ministry centers.

FOR EXAMPLE: A prominently displayed sign that would say something like:

“We support economic justice for farmworkers.  Thank you for not using non-UFW table grapes, head lettuce or Gallo wine in this building.”

Some conscientious explaining to people in addition, will help the unions work considerably.

LSM-USA recognizes the United Farmworkers Union’s consistent efforts to promote social justice while conducting itself according to the principles of Christian non-violent action.

ACTIONS TAKEN:

As suggested in the resolution the national council sent an edited  edition of the resolution to appropriated district and synodical newsletters in California.  Unfortunately, the resolution was not printed due to the late date of the council’s fall meeting and the late arrival of the article to the newsletters.

The University of Washington supplied the national office with information to help groups of students to organize and work with the UFW to get the Initiative passes as well as how to help any time of the year.  The information was sent out to all schools affiliated with LSM-USA.

To offer monetary support or moral support to the United Farm Workers contact:

                                    United Farm Workers Union

                                    P.O. Box 62

                                    Keene, CA 93531

NOTE:

California Initiative 14 was defeated 4,733,577 (62%) to 2,880,215 (38%).  The defeat for Governor Jerry Brown and Ceasar Chavez was mostly due to fallacious claims by grower that their property rights were threatened.