February 6, 2008
Flower workers in Colombia, the second largest exporter of flowers; in
Ecuador, the third largest exporter; and in other countries in Latin
America are:
-
Exposed to deadly pesticides and fertilizers on a regular basis that
have led to health problems including nausea, impaired vision,
conjunctivitis, rashes, asthma, congenital malformations, as well as
respiratory, neurological, and reproductive problems. -
Discriminated against as new workers are often submitted to illegal
pregnancy tests, and employers frequently fire pregnant workers.
Sexual harassment is a serious problem. - Forced to work overtime without being paid higher wages for their overtime work.
- Denied their rights to organize and bargain collectively, and are threatened and fired if they try.
Write a letter to bring justice to flower workers! You can also urge
your supermarket to buy from companies that don’t exploit their
workers. When you buy, look for labels such as Flower Label Programme
(FLP), Fair Flowers Fair Plants (FFP), Veriflora, and FlorEcuador to
name a few.
Have a Happy Valentine’s Day!