 February 1, 2012
Hershey is one of the largest producers of chocolate in North America; most of the chocolate consumed in the US comes from several areas in West Africa where millions of children work for little or no pay, and face illnesses and abuses without recourse; and, many cocoa farmers are held in poverty, unable to organize for better working conditions. Despite Hershey's claims of attempts to end child labor, labor trafficking, and the horrible working conditions on cocoa farms, the company has done little to engage in or to help ensure independent certification for its cocoa. Some of Hershey’s competitors, including Mars and Nestle, have committed to start sourcing cocoa that is independently certified to comply with labor rights standards. (Source: Carol Barton)
Join United Methodist Ministries, The United Methodist Church, and United Methodist Women in the fight for justice and labor rights. Cocoa and its productions are one of the areas where labor abuse and exploitation most blatantly occur. Hershey's use of cocoa gleaned through injustices committed against our brothers and sisters cannot be supported. Use these advocacy cards to sign and send your desire for change to Hershey's. Have a group of your friends sign the cards, then collect them and mail them in as a group for a larger impact.
 Chocolate_Advocacy_Cards-PDF.pdf
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