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Labor and Community Allies Deliver 3,000 Petitions to Costa Farms in Planting Justice Campaign

On September 8, more than 60 workers, union members, faith leaders and community allies came together with WeCount as part of its Planting Justice Campaign, delivering 3,000 petition signatures to Costa Farms and calling for stronger protections for workers’ health and safety.

The action began at the WeCount office, where participants gathered for music and heard from workers, a faith leader and Kris Beckford, South Florida AFL-CIO Vice President and President of IBEW Local 349. From there, participants traveled by bus and caravan to Costa Farms.

A delegation of about 10 labor, faith and community representatives planned to enter and deliver the petitions while the larger group rallied outside with signs, banners and chants. Instead, Costa Farms management came outside to meet with the group, allowing everyone gathered to hear the exchange.

After delegation members introduced themselves, a faith leader from PACT read a Bible verse and a WeCount environmental justice organizer presented management with the 3,000 petition signatures.

Costa representatives said they were aware of the Planting Justice Campaign and had been in contact with WeCount. They also said worker health and safety was a top priority and indicated they would consider a future meeting. WeCount has previously sent multiple certified letters seeking engagement with the company.

The action reflects the broader labor-community work supported by the South Florida AFL-CIO. Its 2025–2026 Strategic Plan identifies WeCount as a key coalition partner and emphasizes organizing around stronger labor standards, health and safety protections, heat protections, living wages and worker rights throughout Miami-Dade County.

After delivering the petitions, participants returned to the WeCount office for a short debrief and a community meal. WeCount will bring union and community leaders together in the coming days to evaluate the action and determine the next steps for the Planting Justice Campaign.

The message from the day was clear: workers should be able to do their jobs safely, with dignity and respect, and labor and community allies will continue standing together to make sure their voices are heard.