IOWA CITY, IOWA – On July 14, the Organic Consumers Association (OCA), Forward Latino, Socially Responsible Agricultural Project (SRAP), Dr. Mercola and US Farmers & Ranchers for a Green New Deal launched an education and lobbying campaign urging consumers to “Boycott Big Meat.” Over 50 other groups including Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Sunrise Hub and Iowa Alliance for Responsible Agriculture endorse the boycott.
A virtual press conference will be held at 7:00 p.m. CDT, July 14, 2020.
"Consumers must lead the just transition to a decentralized system of organic regenerative pasture-raised/grass-fed meat production, run by a diverse network of local/regional independent farmers, ranchers, processors and retailers who are committed to fair pay and safe working conditions, and environmental and climate justice," said Ronnie Cummins, OCA's international director.
OCA, a national grassroots nonprofit, advocates for safe, healthful food and a clean environment on behalf of consumers.
The non-profit and non-partisan Forward Latino assists Latinos in pursuing the American dream. Forward Latino fulfills its mission through advocacy, civic engagement, education and service delivery.
"From the growing number of meatpacking plant workers suffering from COVID-19, to families mourning the loss of loved ones, we are witnessing the human cost associated with the profits of our nation's largest meat processors," said Darryl Morin, president of Forward Latino. "Predominantly people of color, these essential workers have the right to the same workplace protections most of us take for granted."
SRAP helps rural communities replace industrial livestock production with ecologically sound, socially equitable, and economically viable animal agriculture.
"With price fixing, injustices to farmers and meatpacking plant workers, a lack of food security and infrastructure, and environmental and public health concerns that hurt us all, the industrial livestock system has long been rife with abuse," said Sherri Dugger, executive director of SRAP. "Our future depends on our taking action."