Week 4 - Santa's Sweatshops

WEEK 4
ASA 141
Alejandra Verduzco

If I'm being honest, fashion had never been something I took an interest it. I always thought the fashion industry was just about models and the desire of humans to fit into this image that has been created by society. However, these past readings were something very eye-opening that made me rethink my interest in the fast fashion world.  The reading, Santa's Sweatshop by William Holstein, explained the dark truth behind all the clothes people wear today. It depicted the harsh and horrific working conditions of many fashion companies and how they abuse the workers.  The workers are being paid very little for hours of work and for what? For the cheap clothes to end up being in landfill causing a variety of environmental problems. The worst part about this was that it is taking place right here in the U.S while many people believe it only happens in third world countries. And although fashion never really spoke to my interest before, after reading these articles it makes me want to get involved and be apart of the change that needs to happen in the fashion industry.

As the article mentioned the world economy is very dependent and connected to the fashion industry making it very difficult to remove all transnational located companies, however with companies such as Levi's we could make a small difference little by little. But how long will it take to finally make a drastic difference in the fashion industry?
How many more factory workers need to die for companies and people to be aware of the issue at hand?

The documentary we watched in class closely relates to the article as it shows the disturbing and sad reality of the workers working conditions. Overall the world needs to be more aware of the background of the clothes they are purchasing and make a difference. The article by Khaundal and Pradhan mentions ways that the fashion industry has been changing to be more sustainable, naming brands that work towards sustainable designs and products. Hopefully, as years go people will soon be aware of the true cost of fashion. But will it be too late? Are we already too deep into this dark side of fashion? Will it ever truly get better for the workers?