It's impossible to overstate how important Tyson Foods is to the economy and culture of Northwest Arkansas. The commitments they make to protect workers' rights have a significant impact on the quality of life of thousands of residents of our community, and far-reaching implications for poultry workers nationally. As the leader in the industry, Tyson also influences its competitors, and can model the kind of fair labor practices worker justice advocates seek concerning sustainable, sufficient livelihood for all.
As an ally of the Northwest Arkansas Worker Justice Center, and as a pastor in Fayetteville with parishioners who work at many levels of Tyson, I have found myself in a unique space, hearing the deep concerns of line workers over their working conditions and pay, and also hearing the perspective of executives trying to listen to these concerns while leading a large corporation. I am thankful for Tyson's willingness to listen to the concerns of Oxfam, the Northwest Arkansas Workers' Justice Center, faith voices like mine, and the workers themselves. I congratulate them on taking proactive steps (illustrated in the release of their statement "Tyson Foods Commits to New, Sustainable Approach to a Better Workplace") to improve the health and safety of their workers, hear worker voices and create systems for better transparency and accountability. I challenge them to continue this pattern of equity, safety and openness.
My continuing prayer is that Tyson Foods will treat all its workers with dignity, create space for them to organize and compensate them fairly.
Clint Schnekloth
Pastor
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Commentary on 04/27/2017