Oppose the Colombia "free" trade agreement

The hidden costs of "free" trade agreements like NAFTA and CAFTA took a tremendous toll on our country: 1 million jobs disappeared, countless communities collapsed, and workers' rights were exploited at home and abroad.

But now President George W. Bush and Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao want another free trade deal - this time with Colombia. The Colombian free trade agreement (FTA) fails to meaningfully address a severe Colombian crisis: union members there are regularly assassinated. This year, trade unionists are being murdered at the staggering rate of over one a week, meaning that this year could shape up to be even worst than the last.

We can stop this. Tell Congress to vote NO on the Colombia Free Trade Agreement.

Subject:

Dear [ Decision Maker ],

(Edit Letter Below)

I am writing you in opposition to the Colombian Free Trade Agreement.

The hidden costs of free trade agreements like NAFTA and CAFTA took a tremendous toll on our country: one million jobs disappeared, countless communities collapsed, and workers' rights were exploited at home and abroad.  As someone who cares about standing up for workers' rights everywhere, I am against this trade agreement.

Violence against union members is pervasive in Colombia, and the country's president has done little to stop the attacks.  This year, trade unionists are being murdered at the staggering rate of over one a week, meaning that this year could shape up to be even worst than the last.  In spite of the ongoing violence, Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao argues that because fewer union members are being killed than in  the worst years, we should implement the trade agreement.

This is an unacceptable proposition.  The United States should not engage in agreements with leaders - in Colombia or elsewhere - who overlook serious issues like the assassination of union members.  Ratifying the agreement would make a mockery of the labor protections that were negotiated and incorporated into the trade agreement, and which would be violated from day one.

I am copying Secretary Chao on this letter.

Sincerely,

[Your name]
[Your address]

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