An investigation of four Guess contractors in Mexico in 1998 found evidence of forced overtime, violations of child labour laws, unsafe working conditions, discrimination against pregnant women, poverty, repression and fear. Thank you, Sheila. Mocking the traditional fashion show, announcers and models subvert the familiar sales pitch and brand images with humour and facts to expose the stories of the women who make our clothes and sports shoes. Announcers describe the brand-name products worn by the models, and then reveal the wages and working conditions of the women who made the products. Preparing for a sweatshop fashion show can be an educational experience in itself.
Participants collect brand-name clothes made in countries around the world.
They visit stores and websites to compile information on prices, wages and working conditions. They learn about workers issues and demands, and the actions we can take to support them. They design a script, choose music, and rehearse. They publicize the event, prepare campaign materials, and contact the media. Church groups, union locals, and high school and university students across the country have staged highly successful Sweatshop Fashion Shows, raising awareness, and sparking discussion, debate, community interest and action.