Demand for biofuels has now pushed corn prices to record levels. With their farmers already driven off the land, Mexicans, in all likelihood, may not be able to feed themselves. Unable to make a living, unable to feed themselves, is it any wonder that immigration to the U.S. seems to be their only option?
While Clinton and Obama refuse to take a stand on ending NAFTA, they have no problem calling for immigration reform. Might they consider how their lack of action on free trade is causing the immigration problem they say must be addressed? Initially supporting construction of a fence on the Mexican border, they now support a hold on construction. Still, as stated in a recent article of mine, they need to recognize the cause of the immigration problem before they can argue the solutions.
Clinton and Obama must listen to the workers, the farmers, the labor unions and to the people of the South. Rather than arguing about who hates NAFTA more, how about a commitment to end it? How about taking food out of trade agreements? Food is different; Food Sovereignty is a human right.
While in the White House, Senator Clinton worked for better education, better health care and the empowerment of women. Senator Obama likewise worked for social change, social justice and racial empowerment. So, can't they bring those topics into the discussion now? Why not propose or support an agenda for social change, commitments for fair trade, Food Sovereignty, local production and fair wages. No matter who wins the nomination, Clinton or Obama, both should agree on those principles.
Jim Goodman is a farmer from Wonewoc WI and a policy fellow for the Food and Society Fellows Program
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