Session on the impact of fashion and apparel industry on workers, consumers, and the environment

A session on the impact of fashion and apparel industry on workers, consumers, and the environment was organised by the Social Work Students Association in collaboration with Collective for Labour on the 10^th of March, 2020 at 3 PM in Xavier hall. The session began with the screening of a documentary titled 'The True Cost', directed by Andrew Morgan. The documentary is a description and commentary on the fashion industry and its impact on labourers employed in the industry. Issues such as low wages and violence experienced by workers in the industry at the hands of their employers were also depicted.

One particular tragedy involving the collapse of a garments factory in Dhaka, Bangladesh, brought to light, the poor working conditions as well as the low value attached to the lives of the workers in the garments industry in the developing world. The impact of the industry and its activities on the environment was highlighted as well.  After the screening of the documentary, Anse Mathachan of II MSW introduced Ms. Rukmini, President of Garment Labour Union, who then shared her experience of working in the garment industry.  She mainly talked about the lack of workers' rights in the garment industry and the abuse the workers are forced endure as a result of it. Following her address, there was a discussion in which the audience participated. Prof.Y.J Rajendra then gave the concluding remarks. The session was an eye opener for many present about the dark side of the fashion industry.