Two stories posted yesterday on Upside Down World, highlight the continuing problems with sweatshop labour in Guatemala in the textile sector. The first concerns the lack of basic amenities and abuse and features a powerful letter written by the workers to Daisy Fuentes, of MTV fame. The workers are employed on her branded goods. The second story talks of a factory where maquiladora workers organised, for the first time in Guatemalan history, and are facing job losses in addition to the withholding of promised back-pay.

These stories highlight the plight of workers the world over, and especially in the developing world who suffer all types of exploitation so that consumers can get their goods at the cheapest price. The exploitation is a consequence of greed and the desire for profit on the part of the manufacturers. It should be the wish of all that these people do not lose their jobs but that they are treated as human beings and not animals. To be treated with dignity. Both stories also mention what action can be taken in support.

Background

National Labor Committee (USA) - Daisy Fuentes Clothing Sewn in Guatemalan Sweatshop