December 2005

Mr. Jim Skinner, CEO
McDonald’s Corporation
McDonald’s Plaza
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Fax: 630-623-7409

Dear Mr. Skinner,

I am writing to urge you to work with the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) to improve the wages and working conditions of the people employed in the fields where the produce purchased by McDonald’s is grown.

As you know, farm workers are among the most exploited workers in the U.S. and tomato pickers in Florida are no exception. Taco Bell and the Coalition of Immokalee Workers recently signed an agreement to improve conditions among Taco Bell’s suppliers. This is an important, greatly needed, and long overdue step.

But many other farm workers care for and harvest the produce used by McDonald’s. I urge you to work with the CIW to address your common labor and workplace issues. As you know, CIW is an internationally recognized, human rights award-winning organization. They are currently working compatibly with Taco Bell to implement their joint agreement. You are fortunate to have such a strong and moral organization with whom to partner.
In addition to addressing wages and working conditions, please work with the CIW to develop an enforceable code of conduct to govern your suppliers. The Socially Accountable Farm Employers (SAFE) Initiative is inadequate and unacceptable. Workers should be part of shaping any solution that affects their lives and their livelihoods.

The United Church of Christ has a long history of working for social and economic justice. We have a special interest in farm workers, people with whom Jesus would have particularly identified himself. He would have classified them among “the least” of God children when viewed through the lens of social and economic privilege. But as beloved children of God, farm workers are entitled to an equitable portion of the abundance God gives this world.

McDonald’s has engaged in a number of noteworthy and socially responsible actions in recent months. I strongly congratulate you on your efforts in these areas. But McDonald’s must go further. Farm workers are an important part of your supply chain. These people, our sisters and brothers in Christ, deserve better treatment. Please initiate discussions with CIW around your common concerns.
Sincerely,

Rev. Linda Jaramillo
Executive Minister

cc: Bob Langert, Senior Director of Social Responsibility;
McDonald’s Corporation; McDonald’s Plaza; Oak Brook, IL 60523