Make Trade Fair in the Americas: Say NO to FTAA!
- by: Oxfam America
- recipient: US Trade Representative, Ambassador Zoellick
A HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN THE AMERICAS! WE NEED YOUR HELP!
In just a few weeks, US Trade Reps will make a decision that could harm millions of people in every nation from Canada to Argentina!
The proposed Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) threatens millions of poor people living throughout the Western hemisphere. The agreement could destroy the livelihoods of poor farmers, undermine environmental protections, strip local governments and communities of their power, and increase the price of life-saving medicines.
Global trade can be a powerful tool to reduce poverty, but only if the rules that govern trade are fair. Unfortunately, poorly crafted trade agreements in the past have often had a negative impact, and the new FTAA promises more of the same:
Mexico's small farmers were crushed by a wave of American subsidized corn.
Mexican government was forced to allow US companies to process toxic waste
in Mexican communities.
US being sued by a Canadian company because of California's requirement for
less polluting gasoline.
WHO BENEFITS?
Influential multinational corporations have helped craft the agreement behind closed doors. The average person hasn't had a chance to give any input on the agreement that will seriously affect their lives.
WHAT YOU CAN DO RIGHT NOW!
Speak out now against the proposed FTAA. Sign below. Urge Trade Representatives to oppose the FTAA until it adequately addresses threats to the environment and to the welfare of millions. Positive alternatives are possible. SIGN TODAY! Your letter will be delivered to US Trade Representatives before they make their decision!
ATTN: U.S. Trade Representatives
Trade can -- and should -- be a way to help millions lift themselves out of poverty.
Unfortunately, the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) perpetuates these
injustices. I urge you to vocally oppose the FTAA and support a hemispheric
trade agreement that truly considers the millions of people who will be
affected by it. Positive alternatives are possible.
Thank you for your time.
