A delegation of religious and community leaders met with representatives of Ralphs grocery stores in January. The meeting was about how Giumarra, who sells under the Nature’s Partner label, mistreats the people who harvest their produce. During the meeting, Ralphs representatives stated that they do not carry Nature’s Partner grapes in their stores.

Last month, we sent out a survey asking for help in our Giumarra store campaign. One of the requests was for our supporters to let us know when they find Nature’s Partner labeled produce in their stores. Well, our supporters e-mailed us and let us know Ralphs was not only selling Nature’s Partner grapes, but had a full-blown promotion on them.  We obtained photo proof of Ralphs carrying Giumarra grapes.

Can you believe it? Ralphs representatives lied to a room full of religious leaders. These were neighborhood clergy whose congregations shop at Ralphs.

Please take a moment to read the following letter from Reverend Sandy Richards, who has become a key activist in the struggle for justice out at Giumarra Vineyards.

Last summer, I spoke with farm workers from Giumarra Vineyards. I heard stories about the long hours of labor under the searing Central Valley sun. I was astonished by the amount of abuse the workers endured. I learned of the fear these workers experienced in trying to stand up for their lawful rights. I felt compelled to join their cause.

My fellow clergy and I could not simply sit silent so we paid a visit to Ralphs Corporate headquarters, where we shared our concerns with company representatives. Ralphs claimed to not carry Giumarra’s Nature’s Partner brand. I am saddened to learn that they lied to us. Not only does this company carry Nature’s Partner, but they even recently displayed Nature’s Partner grapes prominently in Ralphs’ produce departments.

Please join us in speaking out and send a message to Ralphs today. Click on the "participate button" on the top right.