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At the Midwest Encuentro - held in Casa Aztlan in Pilsen, Chicago - CIW allies from across the Chicago area and the broader Midwest got an opportunity to come together for a day of strategizing and networking around the CIW's McDonald's campaign. Here, CIW members from Immokalee share their stories of struggle and triumph.

Aided by a few coats, scarves, and their passion and commitment for the cause, Encuentro participants braved the Windy City chill to deepen their understanding of and commitment to the CIW's campaign.

The Encuentro made the direct connection between farmworkers and consumers clear. Here, this haphazard youngster - representing what McDonald's refers to as its "sweet spot" - has fallen victim to McD's $2 billion/year marketing machine, supporting the fast-food giant on his shoulders.

Meanwhile, McDonald's continues to exploit farmworkers through its tomato purchasing practices. Consumers and farmworkers, however, are joining forces, together dropping the clown and forging a path to fair food and dignity in the fields.

Of course, this won't happen without plenty of organizing and action. In that vein, Encuentro participants (undaunted by the snowfall) hit the streets for a march and rally at a local McDonald's.

The wind blew, the snow fell...

...and fell some more.

The weather was harsh, but not as harsh as this brazen attempt by McD's to coopt Martin Luther King, Jr., who once famously declared his unwillingness to "rely on the goodwill and understanding of those who profit from exploiting us." In recent months, this statement has acquired fresh meaning as the CIW and its allies have grown increasingly impatient with McDonald's and its behavior over the past two years.

And yes, Rolando the Clown did make an appearance at the Midwest Encuentro.

At the end of the day, spirits remained high and the action provided just a tiny glimpse of what is to come this April 13 and 14. The Encuentro helped to build the connections and commitment we'll need to move this work forward in the Windy City and surrounding Midwest communities in the weeks and months ahead.