Union election set at Sakuma; boycott of Driscoll’s berries ends

BURLINGTON (Sept. 6, 2016) — Familias Unidas por La Justicia (FUJ) announced Sunday that it had reached agreement with the Sakuma Brothers Farms to conduct a union representation election among its farm workers. The FUJ is therefore calling for an end to the boycott of Sakuma Brothers berries — including those sold as Driscoll’s — as the more than three-year struggle to get a union contract at Sakuma enters this next phase.

The following was posted at the FUJ Facebook page (which you should “like” for additional updates):

Dear Supporters,

As of today, Sept. 4, 2016 Sakuma Brothers Farms and Familias Unidas por La Justicia have mutually agreed to conduct a secret ballot election within the next 8 days. The election will determine if the employees want to be represented by Familias Unidas por La Justicia in collective bargaining with Sakuma Farms. Thanks to your tireless efforts we are entering into this next phase of our union’s development with hope and determination. At this time we are calling for an end of the boycott, and all boycott activities. Out of respect for the process and our memorandum of understanding with the company please do not contact past, present or potential customers, purchasers, sellers or users of products coming from Sakuma Bros Berry Farm to convey criticism of any and all aspects of Sakuma’s business and operations.

Please stay tuned at the Familias Unidas por La Justicia Facebook page for updates.

Gracias,

Ramon Torres
Felimon Pineda
FUJ

Familias Unidas por La Justicia is an independent farm workers’ union that is affiliated with the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO.