Sheriff: There is slavery in Florida tomato fields

In March, the Florida Legislature apologized for the state's support of slavery-in the past. It was long overdue, to say the least. But, as they are attempting to make amends for past transgression, Florida is still a state in which slavery is still practiced.

"The seven cases of modern slavery that have been uncovered in the fields of Florida are just the tip of the iceberg," Benitez said, referring federal cases in the past decade. (You can view the case here.)

Today, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee heard testimony about the conditions in Florida and have vowed to monitor the situation.

Sign the petition from Fair Food Nation and CIW demanding that restaurants like Burger King support worker rights.

John Bowe's book, "Nobodies" was released last year that discusses the issue of slave labor in the U.S..

Recent Stories:
Did Burger King Target and Spy on Tomato Pickers Rights Groups?
Congress back call to raise tomato pickers wages
Slavery in the land of the free
Sixth Suspect Arrested in Slave Case

Past News Stories:
December 2007: Fruit-pickers escape
2005: Modern-Day 'Slave Farms' in FL (NPR)