The Vida Verde Women's Co-Op: Brazilian immigrants organizing to promote environmental and social justice.
We reviewed the key steps in the launch of the Vida Verde Women's Co-Op among Brazilian immigrant housecleaners in Somerville, MA. The co-op provides green housecleaning products, encourages healthy work practices, and promotes a sense of community among its members. We conducted in-depth interviews with 8 of the first co-op members, who reported a reduction in symptoms associated with the use of traditional cleaning agents and a new sense of mutual support. Critical to the co-op's success have been the supportive roles of its academic partners (Tufts University and the University of Massachusetts, Lowell), effective media outreach, and a focus on advancing social justice. Next steps include implementing a formal business plan and assessing the appropriateness of cooperatives in other industries.
Gute
David M
DM
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University School of Engineering, 200 College Ave, Medford, MA 02155, USA. david.gute@tufts.edu
Siqueira
Eduardo
E
Goldberg
Julia S
JS
Galvão
Heloisa
H
Chianelli
Mônica
M
Pirie
Alex
A
D001900:Boston; D001938:Brazil / Q000208:ethnology; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D054242:Emigrants and Immigrants; D005260:Female; D015386:Hazardous Substances; D006796:Household Work; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health; D016730:Program Development; D012935:Social Justice; D014495:Universities
D015386:Hazardous Substances