Are We Unintentionally Supporting Sweatshops?
by Aida Mercado
Sweatshops are defined as factories with socially unacceptable working conditions. Employees work for extremely low pay, in an unsafe environment. They may employ children, violating child labor laws and workers usually report experiencing verbal, physical or sexual violence. Aside from the terrifying human rights issues, sweatshops represent an environmental concern. The surrounding habitat, including water and land is usually contaminated with chemical waste that was improperly disposed of and the neighboring community is usually exposed to high levels of air pollution.
The problem does not stem from purchasing the basic necessities we all need to survive or the occasional item we may enjoy. The root of the problem is our obsession with overconsumption. Our society is now one that glorifies influencers sharing their constant shopping hauls of inexpensive products. We feel pressured to follow trends, we click on affiliate links and we fill our closets with clothing that usually lacks the quality to go beyond a season or two and makeup that may not even match our skin tones.
Image courtesy of Munir Uz Zaman/Agence France-Presse
What we fail to realize is that this shopping habit not only affects our wallets, but also impacts the quality of the air we breathe and the water we drink. Additionally, sweatshop workers are often exposed to irreversible physical and psychological harm. On April 24, 2013, the world watched in shock as we learned of the heartbreaking and preventable collapse of Rana Plaza in Bangladesh, an 8 story building that housed shops, banks and garment factories. After being informed of structural cracks the garment workers were still ordered to return to work and many paid the ultimate price. This resulted in the loss of 1,134 lives and nearly 2,600 injured employees.
When we think of sweatshops, many of us assume these only exist in developing countries. In reality “Made in the USA” is no guarantee that our products are made ethically. A 2022 survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor found that many garment workers from Southern California are victims of wage theft and illegal pay practices, some making as little as $1.58 per hour. Other employees are paid piece-rate wages, a practice that is prohibited in the State of California.
While we may not have the opportunity to monitor the supply chain of every item we purchase, we can take steps to support responsible consumption. We should choose second hand, if this option is available to us. When purchasing new items let’s look for sustainable and recognized certifications that promote ethical business practices. We can tap into our creativity, normalize and embrace being proud outfit repeaters. Let’s support our small, local shops and require big chain retailers to do better, if they want to earn our business. Transparency is key. We must continue educating ourselves and sharing what we learn.
Image courtesy of Sajjad Nayan
Most importantly, we must demand a call for action from our governments. The best way to stop modern slavery is if countries who are in an economic position to build better and responsible supply chains, take action. We need laws that address this horrific situation and politicians that will enforce those laws.
Dignity, respect and equality are not privileges to be enjoyed by a select few. Human rights should not be exclusive. We need to take a stand to ensure justice and fairness are always inclusive.
