Food workers continue to be under attack. Yesterday, immigration officials raided Southeast Provision, a beef slaughter plant outside Knoxville, Tennessee. Nearly 100 workers were arrested and separated from their families in a military – style operation that has once again left the immigrant community fearful..

According to the Washington Post, “Federal agents began investigating the company after Citizens Bank employees noticed that Southeastern Provision was withdrawing large sums of cash every week — more than $25 million since 2008. [IRS Special Agent Nicholas R.] Worsham said the plant hired undocumented workers who were paid in cash and subject to harsh conditions, including long hours without overtime and exposure to bleach and other chemicals without protective eyewear.”

A federal response to workplace exploitation should not include by forcibly removing workers from their families and communities. The Food Chain Workers Alliance calls on the Trump Administration and their enforcers to immediately halt all deportations until comprehensive immigration reform is achieved. The Alliance further calls on all workers, immigrants, people of color and our allies to make a statement of resistance by participating in a national day of action on May 1st, International Workers Day. Join May Day United fighting to ensure the most marginalized working families live with dignity, safety, and power.

We must unite to end the attacks on our communities.