Coalition of Immokalee Workers - Immokalee, Florida

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The Coalition of Immokalee Workers: A Champion of Farmworker Rights

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For those seeking to understand and support vital organizations dedicated to social justice and worker empowerment, the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) stands as a prominent and impactful entity. Established in 1993, the CIW is a non-profit organization committed to improving the lives and working conditions of farmworkers in Florida and across the Southeast United States. Located at Address: 110 S 2nd St, Immokalee, FL 34142, United States, and reachable at Phone: 2396578311, with a comprehensive online presence at Website: ciw-online.org, the CIW has become a nationally recognized leader in advocating for fair labor practices and human rights.

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Organizational Structure and Mission

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The CIW operates as a democratic, member-led organization. Its core membership comprises the farmworkers it represents – the individuals whose voices and concerns form the bedrock of its work. The organization’s mission is fundamentally rooted in ensuring that farmworkers receive fair wages, safe working conditions, and the respect they deserve. It achieves this through direct action, community organizing, and legal advocacy. The CIW doesn’t simply petition; it actively engages in labor strikes, boycotts, and public awareness campaigns to effect meaningful change.

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Key Areas of Focus & Specialties

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The CIW’s work encompasses a wide range of critical areas, including:

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• Wage Verification: The CIW meticulously monitors and verifies that farmworkers are paid the wages promised in their contracts. They utilize a sophisticated system of audits and investigations to uncover and address wage theft, a pervasive problem in the agricultural industry.

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• Safety and Health: Recognizing the hazardous nature of farm work, the CIW advocates for improved safety protocols, access to healthcare, and protection from pesticide exposure.

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• Contract Negotiation: A central pillar of the CIW’s strategy involves negotiating fair and just contracts with produce buyers – the companies that purchase the fruits and vegetables grown by farmworkers. These contracts guarantee living wages, benefits, and enforceable labor standards.

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• Community Organizing: The CIW empowers farmworkers to become active participants in their own struggles for justice. Through training and support, they build leadership skills and strengthen their collective voice.

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• Legal Advocacy: When necessary, the CIW utilizes legal action to challenge exploitative practices and protect the rights of farmworkers.

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The organization’s Specialties: Non-profit organization nature allows it to operate independently and prioritize the needs of its members above all else. Their commitment to worker empowerment is unwavering.

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Immekalee: A Region of Importance

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Immekalee, Florida, serves as the location for the CIW’s headquarters and a crucial hub for agricultural labor. The region’s economy is overwhelmingly reliant on the production of tomatoes, citrus, and other fruits and vegetables. However, farmworkers in Immokalee often face significant challenges, including poverty, precarious employment, and limited access to resources. The CIW’s presence in Immokalee represents a critical intervention, providing support and advocating for a more just and equitable system.

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Community Feedback & Accessibility

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The Opinions: This company has 42 reviews on Google My Business, reflecting a generally positive reception from the community. The Average opinion: 4.2/5 rating highlights the organization’s strong reputation for integrity and effectiveness. Furthermore, the CIW prioritizes accessibility for all, offering a Wheelchair-accessible car park and a Wheelchair-accessible entrance, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity. These amenities ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in the organization’s activities and engage with its mission.

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Additional Points of Interest and Resources

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Beyond its core mission, the CIW offers educational resources and opportunities for public engagement. Visitors are welcome to learn more about farmworker issues and the CIW’s work through its website and by attending community events. The organization also partners with various community groups and advocacy organizations to amplify its impact. The CIW’s dedication extends beyond immediate advocacy to fostering long-term systemic change within the agricultural sector. They actively seek collaborations and partnerships to broaden their reach and influence. Supporting the CIW is an investment in a more just and sustainable food system, one that values the dignity and rights of all workers.

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"summary": "The Coalition of Immokalee Workers is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and human rights for farmworkers in Florida and the Southeast United States.",
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