This is where I struggle the most. I realize that sweatshops are bad and companies should not use sweatshop labor. I want to force companies, like Nike, to continue to improve their corporate practices. But what can I do? I am only one person. Can I really make a difference?
The United Students Against Sweatshops is a student organization formed in 1997 which has chapters in colleges and universities across the nation. It is viewed as the largest anti-sweatshop community group in the United States. This group focuses on domestic as well as international sweatshops and has built coalitions of students that focus on a variety of campaigns. This group has attempted to leverage the business power of their schools to further their campaigns. The USAS often bring campaigns to their local universities in attempt to alter the schools licensing agreements with clothing brands. These clothing brands will be hurt financially because of the absence of a licensing deal which will motivate them to change their corporate practices.
One such campaign is “Rein in Russell.” Russell, a sporting apparel company who is viewed as a serial abuser of workers’ rights, has had their licensing contracts terminated by many major universities and colleges around the nation. The latest school, Boston College, has terminated their contract following the line of schools that have either terminated their contracts, not renewed their licensing agreements, or pledging not to enter into future business relations with the company.
Joining such an organization is a great way to get involved. There are also other campaigns and organizations that are easily accessible online to get involved. If joining a campaign or organization is not something you are able to do, then there is an easy way to get involved that is not a large time commitment.
Stay in the know. Read what companies are doing to improve corporate practices and figure out which companies are worth supporting and which are worth boycotting. Then, speak with your wallet. Choose to buy and consume products that are made by companies you consider to be assisting with social justice. Educate yourself and spread the word.
