FLORIDA GOV CRIST ANSWERS CIW VIA LETTER

Thank you for contacting Governor Crist's office and sharing your
concerns about human trafficking or modern day slavery. Governor Crist
is eager to know how people feel about the many issues facing our state
and asked that I respond on his behalf.

Governor Crist supports Florida farm workers. On January 11, 2009 the
Governor declared Human Trafficking Awareness Day. In the proclamation,
Governor Crist compared human trafficking to modern day slavery and this
practice is in direct opposition to the fundamental principles of
liberty and human rights upon which our nation was founded.

On March 25, 2009 Governor Crist met with representatives of the
Coalition of Immokalee Workers. From that meeting, the Governor made
clear his opposition to slavery in any form, his support for the
Coalition's Campaign for Fair Food and his encouragement to the Florida
Tomato Grower's Exchange (and its members) to also participate in the
campaign.

Florida's laws to prosecute perpetrators of human trafficking are
essential to eliminating this crime and protecting individual freedom.
In addition, increased awareness of the issues surrounding human
trafficking is necessary so the people of Florida can assist in
addressing the issue. To that end, thank you for your efforts to involve
Floridians and leaders alike in this important work.

Thank you again for taking the time to share your concerns about this
important issue.

Sincerely,

Warren Davis
Office of Citizen Services


Attachments:
Human Trafficking Awareness Day Proclamation, January 11, 2009
Letter to Coalition of Immokalee Workers