FAQs
What is Big Sugar?
A small network of private sugar companies – led by Florida Crystals, US Sugar, and American Crystal Sugar – that has rigged the political system to secure a massive handout. These massive companies spend tens of millions to pad the pockets of politicians who ensure little to no accountability accompanies the billions of dollars in economic benefits. Big Sugar companies participate in unchecked environmental destruction while targeting vulnerable communities and relying on underpaid workers in dangerous conditions.
Why is Big Sugar so bad for the environment?
Big Sugar companies in Florida burn sugarcane for nearly eight months of the year, emitting greenhouse gas emissions and threatening the health of nearby families. These corporate actors have also taken control of the state’s water supply, introducing toxins into important ecosystems and even suing the Army Corps of Engineers to prevent them from cleaning the water.
And these companies burn sugarcane when the wind blows the resulting black ash toward low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. But the burning stops when the wind shifts toward wealthier and whiter communities. It’s a rigged system that targets vulnerable communities, who are forced to pay the health, environmental, and economic price just to pad the profits of giant corporations.
Does Big Sugar contribute to the economy?
The industry sucks more out of the American economy than it puts in. Because of protectionist measures, hard-working American families pay between $2-4 billion more for sugar every single year, padding the profits of big corporations at a time when inflation is hitting every American pocketbook.
And the sugar’s industry’s protectionism has contributed to the loss of over 100,000 manufacturing jobs in the last few decades. And many of the jobs they do provide are low-wage, have harsh conditions, and carry little opportunity for advancement. In fact, one of the sugar industry’s major players, the Fanjul family, exploits labor in the Dominican Republic that has been compared to “modern-day slavery.”
How does Big Sugar get away with this?
To accomplish all this without oversight, Big Sugar companies spend tens of millions of dollars each election cycle to make sure politicians don’t crack down on their horrific practices. And with a single vote every five years, the U.S. Congress sells consumers down the river and ensures that these sugar companies are protected from meaningful competition.
What is the No Big Sugar Money pledge?
The No Big Sugar Money pledge is a commitment from those seeking political office to keep their campaigns free of toxic sugar money. Any federal, state, or local candidate can take the pledge. All signers must commit to avoid taking contributions, either directly or indirectly, from big sugar companies or their executives.
Why should I support the pledge?
This pledge is the first step of a long fight toward holding Big Sugar companies accountable for their environmental, human, and economic destruction. Politicians across the country have taken donations from Big Sugar and voted to continue underwriting their toxic practices. Supporting this pledge will allow politicians to vote in favor of their communities rather than the sugar barons that line their pockets.
How do I sign or support the pledge?
If you’re a candidate for local, state, or federal office, fill out this form to take the pledge. Make sure to check the box that you’re a candidate.
If you’re not running for office, you can support the pledge by filling out this form.
What to do if I receive a prohibited contribution?
We understand that campaigns are hectic and not all donations are immediately tracked and logged. We ask that as soon as you’re aware of a prohibited donation from a major sugar company, executive, or PAC, you return the money.
How else can I get involved?