RESOLUTION NO. RS2010-1429

A resolution recognizing and welcoming the Coalition of Immokalee Workers’ Modern-Day Slavery Museum and their efforts to bring to light the continued struggle against slavery.

WHEREAS, Nashville's movement for civil rights was a crucial spark in ending segregation throughout the South, part of a nationwide movement for self-determination by oppressed minorities in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Nashville's Mayor Ben West took a courageous stand supporting the civil rights movement of the early 1960's, pledging the city government support that made it possible for Nashville to de-segregate peacefully; and

WHEREAS, despite the successes of the civil rights movement, coercion of workers and minorities remains a daunting problem that we are called to address; and

WHEREAS, an estimated 27 million human beings worldwide are in the bonds of modern-day slavery, which occurs today in myriad forms including migrant farm work; and

WHEREAS, the vast majority of farm workers do not have legal status to work in this country; and

WHEREAS, this situation hurts all Americans by allowing the systemic abuse of undocumented farm workers who feed us; and

WHEREAS, the Coalition of Immokalee Workers has gained tremendous industry and popular support around the country for fair food; and

WHEREAS, Nashville has historically been a catalyst for racial justice movements, and has a rich history of joining in struggles to ensure justice for all; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council recognize and welcome the Coalition of Immokalee Workers’ Modern-Day Slavery Museum and their efforts to bring to light the continued struggle against slavery.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESLOVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOILTAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

SECTION 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and their Modern-Day Slavery Museum. We thank them for traveling here and helping to bring to light the continued struggle against slavery and we welcome them here to our forward-thinking city, our democratic public plaza, and our newly-committed civic bodies.

SECTION 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Jason Holleman, Jerry Maynard, Megan Barry, Lonnell Matthews, Erica Gilmore, Sandra Moore, Kristine LaLonde

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Referred to:	Rules & Confirmations Committee
Introduced:	October 19, 2010
Adopted:	October 19, 2010
Approved:	October 20, 2010
By: