By Erik Kojola
The AU administration and Bon Appétit have an opportunity to be pioneers in sustainability by embracing their stated promises to fresh food, building community and social responsibility through committing to the Real Food Real Job principles.
Over 100 students, faculty and food-service workers delivered this message to Bon Appétit management on the afternoon of Dec. 8, in a powerful display of solidarity and passion. The delegation was part of the Real Food Real Jobs campaign, which encourages students and workers to envision a more healthy, sustainable and just community at AU, in D.C. and across the globe. Workers want respect and the ability to speak out about sustainability and safety issues while cooking and serving fresh food that students enjoy.
Now is the time for Bon Appétit to stand up for their principles of building community and a sustainable food system, which means respect for the environment and human beings. The AU administration also has a responsibility to ensure that the companies they hire follow the values and ethics of our community. After all, students' tuition dollars fund the University. AU cannot evade its responsibility for providing students with quality food and protecting the human rights of workers on campus.
The over 1,000 people who signed the Real Food Real Jobs pledge are a symbol of the tremendous support for good jobs and healthy food, and they are ready to hold Bon Appétit accountable.
Erik Kojola is a graduate student in the College of Arts and Sciences.
