Right Wing Politicians and Growers Attack Fresno Environmentalist

The right is effectively using Carter’s “gaff” to attack his credibility as a spokesperson on environmental and water issues. They are also using it to attack the entire environmental movement.

The rally at Fresno City Hall ended when a hail storm passed overhead. But, the controversy over Carter’s statement and the attempt by politicians and growers to link environmental activists to racism and elitism is likely to continue.

Here is Carter’s apology:

APOLOGY

On the evening of February 4, prior to a debate on water issues, I gave a brief interview to a KMPH Channel 26 TV reporter which aired in edited fashion later that night.

My comments were directed at the exploitation of farmworkers in the southwestern corner of the valley, which is the poorest place in America but, as worded, implied that ALL farmworkers turn to lives of crime or gangs, which is obviously not true. My remarks were intended to focus on the social costs of exploiting an immigrant worker population which is denied adequate pay, housing and education.

I now realize I made a terrible mistake in the way I expressed myself and I humbly apologize to all who were offended.

I have a long reputation of supporting environmental and social justice for farmworkers, who put food on our tables every day in America.

An apology aired on Channel 26 the next night. Again, I painfully realize my comments offended many people and I truly regret the error. It will not happen again. I am sick about this.

Lloyd Carter

******************************

For more information, see this earlier story on Indymedia:

Environmental Group Apologizes for Remarks by Former Board Member
http://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2009/02/09/18569256.php