Killer Coke
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Coca-Cola debate stirs McMaster

Human rights at center of vote | Exclusive deal worth $6 million

Toronto Star | 10/19/05

Questions about freedom of choice and alleged human rights abuses in Colombia are fuelling a referendum this week as students at McMaster University decide if they want Coca-Cola to be the only soft drink sold on campus.

The vote is on the Hamilton schools' exclusive contract with Coke, a company critics allege is linked to violent paramilitary security forces in Colombia.

"This isn't just about taste: The real problem is for people making ethical decisions not to drink Coca-Cola," said Adam Tracey, a 22-year-old referendum organizer.

More than 17,000 full-time students will be eligible to cast ballots tomorrow and Thursday on McMaster University's 10-year, $6 million deal with the company, inked in 1998.

Ray Rogers, a U.S. activist involved with the campaign, cited an ongoing lawsuit filed in the U.S. in 2001 alleging paramilitary groups murdered seven union leaders and a plant manager at Coke plants in Colombia.

The Atlanta-based company blasted the allegations as "false," saying in a statement the company had been "an exemplary member" of Colombia's business community.

The referendum asks whether the student union should oppose the contract, and whether it should urge the university not to renew the agreement.

Roger Trull, a McMaster vice-president, said while the current agreement won't be changed, the vote could influence any future exclusive beverage deals.

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