New Voices Add Support to the Campaign for Worker Dignity at Wild Edibles, Inc.
October 13, 2008New York, NY- Reverend Billy, a nationally-known advocate for responsible consumption and Pastor Jeff Mansfield, a leading voice for food justice at Judson Memorial Church, joined with Wild Edibles workers and their supporters this weekend to protest chef and restaurant owner Terrance Brennan at the New York City Wine & Food Festival. Brennan's Artisanal Bistro lied in writing by stating that it was no longer serving seafood processed by the Wild Edibles sweatshop when it in fact did continue to serve Wild Edibles products.
"Mr. Brennan, honor your word," exclaimed Rev. Billy into a megaphone during a sidewalk sermon in front of the food festival panel featuring Terrance Brennan. "[The Wild Edibles workers] don't want to work in a sweatshop. Even celebrity chefs have to do the right thing."
Wild Edibles workers and supporters handed out leaflets to festival attendees featuring Terrance Brennan's portrait and an explanation of the deception carried out by his restaurant company. Protesters were also treated to a champagne toast, just like the guests at the event, with the message that working families deserve the best.
"We've been fighting for overtime pay for over a year and we've been abused on the job and harassed," explained fired Wild Edibles employee Lino Martinez to the assembled crowd. "We will continue to struggle for as long as it takes." Mr. Martinez is one of several workers that the federal Labor Board says was fired by Wild Edibles owner Richard Martin in retaliation for participating in an overtime lawsuit and for supporting the Industrial Workers of the World labor union.
The awareness event was sponsored by the Brandworkers Focus on the Food Chain campaign. Focus on the Food Chain promotes a sustainable food system which incorporates respect for workers' human rights.
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