Dignity of the Human Person
In "On Human Work" Pope John Paul II has written:
"The person working away from his native land, whether as a permanent emigrant or a seasonal worker, should not be placed at a disadvantage in comparison with the other workers in that society in the matter of working rights. Emigration in search of work should in no way become an opportunity for financial or social exploitation."
Bishop William Skylstad, former Chairman of the National Catholic Rural Life Conference and member of the Domestic Policy Committee of the United States Catholic Conference has similarly written:
"Many migrant farmworkers lack not only a decent age, health care, and retirement benefits, but some live in wretched housing, contend with dangerous machinery, handle hazardous farm chemicals, and work long hours. These seasonal crop workers – those who pick the strawberries, melons, apples, and other "picnic" delights – are especially vulnerable to exploitation because of their mobility and tough new immigration laws." (Labor Day Statement, September 1998)
Most Rev. Nicholas DiMarzio, Bishop of Camden, New Jersey, and Chairman of the U.S. Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration addressed the plight of farmworkers in a statement before the Senate subcommittee on immigration:
"In the view of the Church, all agricultural workers – those both here temporarily or permanently – are entitled to safe working conditions, adequate housing, and benefits for themselves and their families. This is paramount; it deserves the support and affirmation of the community and the nation."
___________________________________
Whether employed in meat processing, vegetable and fruit fields, dairy farms, poultry houses, or hog confinement operations, many immigrant laborers—both men and women—are ill-housed, poorly paid, threatened and vulnerable. Eaters need to whether safe conditions are used in producing their food. We should care if laborers are exploited and mistreated, or given safe and healthy work conditions.
Eating is a Moral Act
|