Simplistic Thoughts

Ever wear a pair of TOMS? How about a pair of TOMS with your American Apparel tee? Sure, we know that when we buy a pair of TOMS they send another pair to someone in a third world nation. A pretty neat idea and too be honest, I am glad that it has become trendy to have a pair of these shoes because of the heart behind the business. But if you break it down, how many people at this point are buying these shoes because of the humanitarian effort or because it is the latest hipster wear? Not trying to sound cynical, but honest. I wonder if those same hipster TOM wearers who sport their V-Neck American Apparel tee, know that the two brands contradict one another. Recently I found that American Apparel was an honorable mention in the 2010 Sweatshop Hall of Shame for poor business practices amongst Honduran workers. This brings me to my next point: how much do we know about the products we buy?

As I have researched human trafficking and others forms of indentured servitude, I have found the urge and importance to become a better consumer. I recognize that raising hell and picket fences is not going to accomplish much besides loud noise, yet realized that raising awareness and choosing not to support certain businesses is the best tactic against these poor practices. My research is far from over, yet some of the data I have found is a little disheartening, especially if some of these corrupt companies products can be found in your very own closet! I am all for giving people jobs, but to not provide workers with proper treatment, rights and adequate wages is wrong! Many sweatshop workers are forced to work obscene hours with no overtime pay in poor conditions with little to no breaks. Children are also at the brunt of this forced/unlawful labor. There is really no excuse for this type of business practice- especially since a majority of the companies in the hot seat have plenty of money and resources to operate with integrity. As far as I am concerned, Wal-Mart is completely dead to me- there are so many accusations, charges and complaints made against this corporation. Enough to bar me from ever wanting to support that company ever again. I would rather spend a little extra money, but unfortunately, not everyone has the luxury to be picky where they shop because of their financial state themselves. But I know we can do better! It's time that we stop oppressing the poor so we can have the latest fashion trend. I suppose Ecclesiastes was correct in its statement, "for much wisdom, comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief". Eccl. 1:18. The sacrifice we would make by not supporting these companies is minimal compared to the change we could actually create! Love you all! Here are some resources...
http://www.laborrights.org/creating-a-sweatfree-world/sweatshops/resources/12211
http://www.freethechildren.com/getinvolved/geteducated/childlabour.htm
http://www.globallabourrights.org/alerts