( - promoted by Fong)
Congress may be taking up the Columbia Free Trade Agreement soon. I don't know a lot about it, so I am putting this question out to knowledgeable readers on the blogs. What's your take?
My gut tells me this agreement would be a disaster. Reports of between dozens (from Wikipedia who sourced Congressional hearing numbers) to thousands (reported by labor groups) of workers trying to organize there have been murdered. My understanding is the US industry most wanting to have this FTA is the beef industry -- an industry that is responsible for enormous environmental devestation, and should be regulated, curtailed and discouraged more, not less. (The beef and pork industries are huge and powerful, and their products kill people -- but that is another diary.) Historically, Republicans have favored this proposed agreement and Democrats have been against it, citing concerns over human rights violations in Columbia.
A friend just sent me this link from the Presbyterian church, which argues that such an agreement would add to the problem of extreme poverty in Columbia.
According to this website, the President supports the Columbia Free Trade Agreement because he believes it will create jobs. I respect, admire, and honor the President, and intend to work hard toward his re-election, but on this note, he may be wrong, IMHO. I want to know if I am missing something before I voice my own opinion on this matter to my elected officials. Is there a compelling and responsible reason some Democrats might be reconsidering this bill? Dialogue here may help to educate all of us a little. Thank you. |
