BISHOP JOSEPH L. IMESCH
BISHOP OF JOLIET

Mr. James Skinner, CEO
McDonald’s Corporation
22nd & McDonald’s Drive
Oak Brook, IL 60521

Dear Mr. Skinner:

I am writing on behalf of the who are seeking an increase in wages and improvement in their lives and that of their families. They are seeking to meet with representatives of McDonald Corporation for a discussion about their concerns.

I readily admit that I am not aware of all the circumstances involving the Immokalee Workers and McDonald Corporation. I have met with some of the workers and listened to their concerns. I frequent a local McDonald’s several times a month. I now have difficulty eating some of McDonald’s products, knowing that the people who provided some of the food are living in squalid conditions and are not being adequately compensated for their labor.

McDonald has such a great reputation, I am very uncomfortable in knowing that these poor farm workers helped to create that reputation, though they do not share in all of the benefits that other McDonald workers have.

I am uncomfortable knowing that the American public, while enjoying McDonald’s food, is not aware of the meager subsistence provided to farm workers who supply McDonald’s with some of their food.

I urge you, as the leader of this outstanding corporation, to see that the company enters into negotiations with the farm workers. I understand that McDonald has made an offer, but this was done without consultation and conversation with the workers. These people deserve better treatment than that from McDonald. I urge you to provide an opportunity for the McDonald Corporation and the workers to come to a mutually satisfactory solution. May the Lord bless your efforts.

Sincerely Yours,

Most Reverend Joseph L. Imesch
Bishop of Joliet