The FLOC Movement
FLOC began in the mid-1960s, when Baldemar Velásquez convinced a small group of migrant farmworkers in northwest Ohio to come together for their common good. Initial successes generated strong reactions in the agricultural industry, which has been structured to benefit those at the top, while exploiting those who labor at the bottom. It took several years for FLOC to build a base among farmworkers in the area. Since then, FLOC has built a membership of tens of thousands of migrant farmworkers by incorporating two key principles:
1. Farmworkers need a voice in the decisions that affect them: allowing workers to form a union and collectively bargain with their employer is the only way to address the huge imbalance of power and provide an effective structure for self-determination.
2. Bring all parties to the table to address industry wide problems: Multi-national corporations have created a supply system that enriches its executives at the expense of those who work in the fields. These corporations have the wealth and power to change the harsh realities that many farmworkers face. FLOC seeks a structure where all those in the system work together to solve problems: corporations, growers, and farmworkers. Historically, this is the only solution that has made a real difference in farmworkers' conditions and lives.
Seated from left to right: Baldemar Velasquez, President of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee, Stan Eury, Director of the North Carolina Growers Association, Bill Bryan, President of Mount Olive Pickle Company
The FLOC movement continues to grow by building a strong popular base of supporters interested in justice. Corporations have tremendous economic and political power, but millions of people who mobilize in support of justice can collectively tip the balance of power to benefit farmworkers.
Through the many successes of FLOC, conditions of our members have changed dramatically over the years. Not only have wages increased, but housing and other conditions have been improved. The greatest improvement, though, is that workers have a direct voice in their conditions through collective bargaining agreements that include an effective process for resolving grievances and problems.
Through the democratic process, FLOC members have also called on the union to represent their interests in Washington, DC and FLOC has taken a lead in the immigrants' rights movement.
FLOC members marching at the 11th FLOC Constitutional Convention
FLOC is a very active union, always involved in organizing and justice campaigns. But our resources reflect those of our membership so we are always looking to increase capacity through fundraising. Over the years, it has always been supporters like you who have made the difference in our struggle for justice.