Union-busting firm invokes ICE threats as Rodney Strong workers push for union recognition

In late July, Raul Calvo, a known union-busting consultant, told Rodney Strong Vineyard employees that ICE agents were stationed outside the facility, framing the site as a border zone. The warning spurred 32 of the 50-person workforce to partner with North Bay Jobs with Justice and Teamsters Local 665, drafting a petition for a card-check union vote and protection from threats. Management countered by hiring Jesse Rojas, who, along with Calvo, held further meetings that workers say contained false statements about unions.

Workers presented their petition to senior manager Rafael "Junior" Malfavon, who was accompanied by Healdsburg mayor Chris Herrod, but the company instead brought in the anti-union consultants. Employees also reported recent terminations, including long-time worker Belen Flores, and expressed financial strain from low wages and extra jobs. Community groups and labor allies have rallied behind the workers, emphasizing the broader issue of immigration-related intimidation in the wine industry.