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Tell us what you think >>
Selected submissions will be posted here regularly, so visit again to read more
comments.
Many people want to help the workers featured in CHINA BLUE. Read why filmmaker Micha Peled will not contact Jasmine and his answer to the question: what can we do to help? >>
04/04/2009
Kelly
While watching China Blue I couldn't help but feel inevitably guilty. I am also quite interested who received Jasmine's letter and how she is doing now.
From Kelly
01/03/2009
Roger Fewkes
San Diego, Calif.
I was very moved by this film. I think we as Americans need to make a stand and not accept products into this country that are made from anti-labor organizations. If the company moves from America so they do not have to follow the rules, then we as Americans should not by their merchandise. I try to by American made ,but it is almost impossible. Keep up the good work.
12/12/2008
jasmine went from living with her family on a farm where her parents let her sleep and fed her to a strict factory where she worked for rediculuos hours with little pay.... who's to blame.... you be the judge
12/12/2008
joe c.
NY
I think that the people working in the factory should just quit all at once. Then, the owner would try to make a deal wit the workers for more money.
12/12/2008
Summerr
NY
I think you guys should get paid more money because if i were you then i would think thats mess up to only get paid that much after all the hard work u do. And you never get to sleep pshhh i need my sleep idk bout you but it looked like you did too and working for 20 hours thats craazyyyyy well gtg changing periodss byeee=] love summer
12/12/2008
melanie
NY
i dont get why they dont pay them more, i would say i'm not gonna buy any jeans made in china but then they would be out of a job
12/12/2008
Europe
This movie is further more true, that anyone can imagine. And this is the saddest thing. I have personal experience like this , which i would like to share, since business with Asian partners is my job for almost 3 years from now. And some aspects of it , i cannot accept till today. Firstly i was working for subsidiary office of big chinese company , but never been to China, so chinese factory was just my imagination. Sth similar to european or U.S factory i thought . Last year for the first time i went to CN to visit my partners factory , and after i saw the reality , behind factory walls , sth cracked in me. I did not expect to see sth like this ... and until today i am devastated, trying not to think about it .This is sth i cannot accept , whilst i know that there is nth i can do about it . most of the workers are in fact kids ! they should enjoy time spend with their families, colleagues , going to the cinema, do all these things which all other kids do ...live their lives. Instead they dont live at all , working 12 hours or more , going to sleep, just to wake up and go to work all over again. Their live is factory !. it shouldn't be like this.
There is also many women on a production line...owner of the factory said, that women are more precise .The truth is that, women are more obedient, they earn less , and this is the point.I remember well , when i entered on production line in one factory , i saw many women working with little babies on their knees...it was very late at night , and they were still working. I was shocked . When a biz person like me comes to China , by factory owners is treated very well . Factory tour , expensive dinners , nightlife - everything to keep up the biz or gain new customer or contract... you spend one night 2000-3000 Y , while workers get this amount for half year of their job. Pushing for the lowest prices or speed up the lead time, is the price that workers pay eventually . They work harder , earning less . personally , instead driving posh jaguar with factory CEO and eat in the most expensive restaurant in town , in sole room , i prefer to have a tea with workers in their lunch break or black out break...
On the other hand , whilst being in the factory , i had a feeling that , they are aware that my profit comes from their hard work , and they get nth , so i am another expoit person.Every shipment hold due to some failures, causes some people to lose their job or being pushed more, while sometimes they are making mistakes from being simply too tired to work more.
my first time in China changed my point of view a lot. U never understand some things, untill you see with your own eyes. and mine became wide open ... When we are doing shopping, spending money ...we never think , that behind the product we buy, which is made in China , lies a sad story of person who makes it . Every product has its own story . I used to be like this as well , until i went to CN.
I think such documentaries, should be made more often and speak LOUDLY , to make peop le realize what lies beneath cheapest price racing ... We will not change it at all at once, but awarness and less agressive , more balanced way of doing business maybe may help .
12/10/2008
Bridget
NY
I think that its fair that you work that hard and don't get paid the fair about of money. The places you live are so much smaller and i didn't realize how much better i have it. i Am deff not going to complain as much when i do choires.
12/10/2008
wow! that film was truly deep. i never knew how hard work can be in a sweat shop.
09/19/2008
Washington, DC
I wish I had bought the jeans with the smuggled note that Little Jasmine left in the pocket.
05/12/2008
05/10/2008
After watching China Blue, I was saddened by how these workers are treated. Why are the companies in the U.S such as Wal-Mart let this happen? When they know whats happening..Well I guess if Wal-Mart can't treat their own employees fairly, why should they care about these people ,right! did watching this film change my shopping habits? it certainly did, i know for sure i wont be shopping at Wal-Mart anymore and i wont be buying expensive jeans. I just felt really bad for Jasmine and the others. is there anyway we can get in touch with them ,or send them cards or something to express our emotions? to let them know that there are people left in this world that cares. Now I understand why some people want to boycott the OLYMPICS,I agree.....there shouldn't be one in China. I think this film should be watched by every retailer in the United States. This is really really sad and it breaks my heart.
02/28/2008
Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A.
I can't get this heartbreaking film out of my head. i've recommended it to any-
one who will listen. I would not purchase a pair of blue jeans if I had to go naked.
What can we ordinary citizens do to help prevent such abuses. What angers me is,that the factory owner in order to stay in business has to grovel before American and Foreign companies to get their business. So where does he make enough profit to stay in business: by exploiting his workers. Shame on all companies who aid abet such behavior. I will examine labels of clothing now before I purchase them. We do indeed need to start a drive to label clothing as "made in non-exploitive conditions."
02/19/2008
John
What a guilt trip. That‚s life, some win and some lose. Everyone on this planet can‚t live the american dream cause there‚s not enough resources and good jobs to go around. These workers wouldn‚t care if the scenario was reversed and you were in the factory (enough to do something to change it). Just be thankful for what you have and realize it‚s everyone‚s duty to help themselves or die. Not a happy post but an honest one.
02/08/2008
I read in the FAQ section that to protect Jasmine, the film makers have decided not to maintain any contact with Jasmine in order not to attract any attention to her. I can't help but think that that hasn't prevented the Chinese Government or her employer at the very least to inflict any punitive measures against Jasmine and her family. Does our dear Jasmine know she has become the center of attention for many around the world? Will we never her from her again having disappeared back into the human morass of China? I would love to know she is safe and sound and perhaps leading a more happy life.
01/08/2008
jo
herne hill, victoria. Australia
I was appalled when i saw this documentary, talk about human rights violation. I refuse to buy any clothes made in China after seeing the conditions the young girl worked in. I was glad when China opened their doors and let their daughters be adopted by foreingers, these poor factory girls lives are surely hell.
7/11/07
Maria D
Chicago, IL
I can't stop talking about this film to all my "Forever 21" shopping friends. I would love them to have the chance to watch it. It is such a moving film. We've all heard hundreds of times about what happens in China, but at the time of doing our shopping, it doesn't come to our minds that that particular item may come from a sweatshop like the one feature on the film. Well, after watching China Blue, it's become impossible for me to shop without thinking of the thousands of people suffering like Jasmin and I wish there was a way for me to avoid purchasing their products. PLEASE SHOW THE FILM AGAIN! PLEASE DON'T STOP EDUCATING US!
6/26/07
Neal
Stuart, FL
Very good film. I will change my buying habits.
But Jasmine had a great idea. If some generous entrepreneur's decided to start a clothing shop which deals with only non-sweat and organized labor products, put a tag on the clothing telling us about the worker/workers. Imagine if Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, with their influence, started a line of "human rights" clothing! My apologies if they're already doing it. But I think Americans would gladly pay a little more for the benefit of another person...instead of a shareholder or a CEO.
6/26/07
Northridge, CA
I understand their poor situation giving their situation in the US. Their currency is relative lower than US currency. So what they earn probably just enough for their needs.
The unfair is how the corporation is overcharging the product and extending benefits to the workers.
I'm working for a mid-eastern boss in US. There is more unfairness than other country. I was hoping if there is a chance to watch a movie/ documentary on American workers's disadvantages.
6/26/07
Vince Orman
Ithaca NY
Most everybody asked what they can do to prevent such exploitation of workers worldwide. The helpessness of consumers is also obvious in all the answers. We all feel for Jasmine's of the world, but feel so helpless to do anything about it. It is important to understand that looking for American made clothes or buying less clothing etc is not going to make a difference. In general it is useful to consume less, but the real solutions are political. Jasmine's plight is a direct result of an exploitative primitive capitalist system that we used to have in this country also. All participants in the system feel that they don't have any choice but participate in this exploitation. Consumers, American corporations, Chinese government, Chinese employers, and the Chinese workers all are contributing to this heart break. The solution is democratic institutions that limit the power of corporations in exploiting workers. Capital organizes and moves internationally, but labor is unable to move and organize internationally. If we could have real international labor laws, rights to strike, laws that protect civil rights and workers' rights, international laws to protect the environment, these outrages would end. Capitalism requires a complex legal environment to operate properly. Otherwise it disintegrates into a barbaric jungle very quickly. The international legal environment has not kept up with the globalization of business. The solution is political organization, and electing wise leaders who can lead the world in these areas, not individually buying this or that kind of product. Pay attention to who you vote for, and ask for worker's rights and civil rights laws and treaties.
6/14/07
NY, New York
Didn't the film makers put Jasmine at risk by filming her. Shouldn't they have made provisions to ensure her safety before publicising her plight to the world. This documentary may win accolades for the film makers and indeed it is raising awareness of the plight of workers but is it responsible journalism?
thank you
6/7/07
J. D. Ritzke
Austin, Texas
Regarding Independant Lens - and Your Excellant Program - China Blue. China Blue Program was about Jeans - but - apply This Business Model to all Products. American Federal Government and Corporate "Leaders" sell The American Public (or Pass Legislation "at Midnight") - The Benefits of Globalization and "Free" Trade. Experts tell us ... Market Forces will cause Rise in way of living for all peoples... Question: Is the Chinese Currency (Yuan) "Free" to rise to the level Yuan should be ?Question: Where is The WTO and what does (or is) The WTO doing ? Question: Does American Government or WTO watch T.V. or "PBS" and know about China Blue Program ? Again ... Please take this Jeans Product Business Model and apply to All Products. How does American Worker compete (Price-wise) with Prison and/or Slave Labor ?
6/6/07
richard c maenpaa
austin texas
little jasmine broke my heart............ actually, it's her boss that breaks my heart. i couldn't help wishing i could do something for her family so she wouldn't have to work for that monster anymore. how can he brag about making $40,000 in a single month?!?!?!?!?!?! oh, and then he compares himself to jesus?!?!?!?!?!?!
i want to encourage all of you to support organized labour, wherever and whenever you can. when you think of buying something, go online and google the name of the product with the words union made (for instance "blue jeans union made") and do whatever it takes to buy union made whether american or not... remember, foreign workers are not are enemies, even if some of their employers are............
richard c maenpaa
u.a. local#669
p.s. remember to say a prayer for all of the "little jasmines."
5/30/07
I think the most distressing aspect of Jasmine's life and the life of millions more migrant workers in China's factories is the complete helplessness. There are over 150 million migrant workers spread across China laboring for pennies in sweatshops, on construction sites and in coal mines. The worst cause of their helplessness is due to the Chinese housing registration system, the Hukou. Under the Hukou system, each family is legally registered to a specific town, city, or area in which they can recieve housing, medical benefits, food allotments, and other necessities supposedly guarenteed to every citizen under China's socialist rule. Back in the 80's, the goverment forced farmers to move to the industrial booming costal cities to work in the factories without reassigning their hukou. Since then, millions upon millions more have moved to the cities for jobs without any hukou benefits. The government lures the peseants into the cities wanting to sustain their new economic boom, but has yet to do anythi
ng substantial in reorganizing the hukou system.
The big international companies which prey on Chinese sweatshops are only half of the problem. The migrants need their paltry wages from their inhumane jobs because its the best they can get under the circumstances. Boycotting sweatshop clothing won't do anything until Chinese legislation is rewritten to protect the migrants.
5/30/07
Amy
Omaha
A side note about Chinese laborers: Chinese law stipulates nine years of compulsory education for all Chinese children. Children of migrant workers, because they have no legal status in the cities they move to for work, must pay for their children to attend school, unlike the local registered children. Migrant workers usually can't afford to send their kids to the local schools and some big cities have formed migrant schools with classes taught by wives and mothers of the workers.Just last year, Beijing city officials shut down over 50 migrant schools in the area leaving tens of thousands of children without access to education. The city wants to clean-up its act in anticipation of the 2008 olympics and thought this might be a good idea. There are also rumors circulating that they plan on expelling around 1 million migrant workers while the olympic games are underway. A director of one of the shut down schools in Beijing had this to say: âAll of this is because of the Olympics. They close the school
s not because the schools are no good, but because they do not want this to attract further migration to Beijing. Of course I have applied for a permit to the government, but they never give it to you. Above all, they want to control and limit the development of these migrant schools.
Here's the link to the news article I got this info from: http://hrw.org/english/docs/2006/09/26/china14263.htm
5/29/07
Steve F
New York, NY
Very moving film. But seems like the comments here focus a lot on not buying from clothiers who manufacture in China...that seems to me hardly the right conclusion. Jasmine and her friends choose this sad life because they need the money for their family's basics. So what happens if we just stop buying from China? The Chinese govt stopped providing free education and healthcare to even the poor, and we see the desperate outcome. How do we solve? I wish I knew, and keep trying to think of personal actions that actually help, but at least more economic development generally raises the bar of expectations -- so we see farmers protesting inequality in China more and more thankfully. And perhaps some of the city wealth gets plowed back to rural education, etc? In the meantime, I'd be very happy to pay extra for jeans made at a higher wage, but made in China still so the money goes to girls like this.
5/29/07
Ellen Starr
Princeton, New Jersey
I was profoundly moved by "China Blue," an extremely well made film, especially considering all the difficulties faced in filming. Did watching the film change my attitude? I knew some of the facts of labor practices in China before, but the emotional power of this film and the human face it puts on the labor situation in China makes me determined to be far more careful about what I buy from now on. This is not just a burning isssue but a terrific, powerfully told film.
5/29/07
Carmen
Princeton, New Jersey
I am a 17 year old, Chinese girl(same as Jasmine, which helped me connect to her), but am living a priviledged and fortune life in the US. The current working situation in China has been repeated through history. During the Industrial Age, the working conditions in America is uncannily similar to those in China today (as illustrated in Dreiser's An American Tragedy). As America grew into the super-power it is today, it exported these factory work to the developing countries, such as China. So as China begins to grow into a future super-power, where would these menial, labor intensive jobs go? To other developing nations? The problem will simply be passed on to other nations, until every country in the world is on par. (An impossible feat)To think of a solution, I asked myself who is responsible for the situation illustrated in China Blue. Undeniably, the working conditions are poor, living conditions are crowded, and wages are too low to support the worker's family back home. The knee-jerk reaction would be to blame the factory boss, who drives the workers to work 24hours and delays their paycheck. But the factory boss is not entirely responsible, he needs to answer to his clients who demand cheaper labor (For example, the bargaining process with that British client). However,the clients are not entirely responsible either, they have to answer to their customers' demands for cheaper products. So is it the customer's fault? Or do we go all the way back to when the assembly line was"invented" and mass production was born and blame Ford for today's problems.(that might be just a bit too harsh on the poor guy)Well-intended consumers may suggest boycotting products from China. But it would only lead to lower demand, and lower wages for the migrant workers, causing more financial woes for their familys. I believe that this vicious cycle comes from within us all: The innate desire to get better products with the least cost or means.Unless we can control this desire, and be willing to pay more for our products,this would not stop. Sadly, this may only occur in the near impossible, ideal world.
P.S: I would like to thank PBS for opening my eyes to the working conditions in China. It has truly changed my way of thinking, and help me define what it means to be an average Chinese.
5/8/07
Mary Storey
Detroit, MI
I am a textile professor at two universities and teach textiles. I do spend a couple of
class periods talking about globalization and itss impact on the American Textile
Manufacturing Industry.
Thanks so much for your coverage of an industry that is not doing anything good for
anyone. Since the drop of quotas and tarriffs, and the opening of more global trade, the
U.S. has experienced drastic losses in jobs and factory closings in our textile industry.
Although, news of the economic loss is over-shadowed with the drama in the middle-east and
other pressing issues, it is imperative that the public start to understand what
globalization has done to many of our industries here in the U.S. It is also very
important that each and every individual understand where their dollars go when making
these purchases. We need to understand that we are not helping to provide a better
lifestyle for foreign factory workers. With the current rise in global warming, these
factories can only add to the pollution levels that will continue to put the entire worlds
population at risk. Thanks so much for your diligence in persuing such an important
subject matter, congratulations on a very insightfull production. I am recommending the
University add your video to our library collection.
5/2/07
Karman
Boston
This documentary shows how society tries to conform everyone so that everyone prioritizes
on money. What do you suggest that we do? I really want to help.
5/2/07
Alan Owens
Ann Arbor, Michigan
We can thank greed for most of this globalization we see today. We are all guilty to this
crime, however not all to the same degree. When you look at the top of this list you will
find the Elitists of our great country. How in any sane's persons mind can they justify a
15-20 MILLION dollar yearly salary for a Corporation CEO while these unjust and inhumain
trade practices continue to be used by these same corporations, all the while being denied
when asked about it and go and spend millions on 'good publicity ads'.
Its time for Americans to wake up and stand up to their government and politicians who let
this type of treatment go without punishment. Not only do we have serious labor and human
rights laws being violated without any regard or discipline what-so-ever but also:
Middle-class Americans lose their good paying jobs to foreign factory workers and are
forced to work even more and harder to reproduce their old wages. Isn't the United States
government's first job to protect its people? American'
s political system is broken, corporations and their lobbyists run this country.
Its very hard to buy any clothing not made in China/Asia or Latin American in this modern
day, and it disgusts me. A very small portion of these factories actually following human
rights laws, and its sad. But what can we do now that everything is out of our
hands?
I believe its up to the people of the United States to stand strong & united against their
government and DEMAND a change in foreign policy as well as its "free trade" policy. We
need stricter laws for not only the rights of foreign workers, but for a more 'fair trade'
approach.
Bush has more blood on his hands then just his military wars... He also has the blood,
sweat & tears of American workers who have lost everything due to his pro-outsourcing
foreign policies.
5/2/07
Alan Owens
Ann Arbor, Michigan
CHINA BLUE-According to CHINA BLUE the largest migration in the world today is taking
place in China. This show follows young lady Jasmine as she leaves her farm home to a
jeans factory. In the factory she earns 6 cents an hour and works 7 days a week. The
company deducts from her pay for her food. Labor board doesn't care if she dies on the
job. Other factories other Jasmine's are worse. The film, despite it's low rewards, was
candy coated because this is what the boss wanted!
5/2/07
Bob Bloomer
Sacramento, Ca.
Think the China Blue episode was THE most fasinating, informative, and revealing
documentary I've seen recently. (how were you able to accomplish it?) What an expose'
about what we don't know about "two systems" China. Guess our 'sweatshops' of the 19th
century are playing out again there with all the people subjucation. But what a wonderful
showcase your producers have given us with unfettered, spontaneous, non-affected responses
by the Chinese protagonists. Thanks very much!!
4/25/07
jim EDGAR
los angeles California
This type of program is so important because it teaches viewers from the inside of the
experience of manufacturing. As a manufacturer myselef in Los Angeles California, I find
it impossible to communicate the difficulties and complexities of manufacturing a product
and getting it to a market. Seeing these beautiful young people working so hard for so
little is the finest way I have ever seen to teach "uneducated" people the values of
understanding how market forces work. Putting this all too human face on this fundamental
principle is what is missing in our daily lives.
4/25/07
jamie rank
Buffalo ny
Me again. To my fellow audience, stop typing and go change something! They need our help!
We have the resources! No excuses. Smile!
4/25/07
jamie rank
buffalo ny
I saw the last half hour of this special on Jasmine and her friends about this "lack there
of" labor enforcement. I appreciated my day more because of her. Because of them.
Yes, " China Blue" changed my attitude twords shopping for clothes but I do not feel
that's the main issue here. I could stop buying denim jeans, (I havent even purchased a
p[air in over a year), but as the circle follows, that means the company recieves no
orders. Therefore no work, and so on to no money for even the hardest of workers (and
youngest), such as our now dear Jasmine"
I say to Jasmine, you work hard but know, no one enjoys hard labor. Especially at the
cruel extremes you are now, most likely, used to. But enjoy the experience as much as
possible. Friends and family seem the best answer. Experience only makes you stronger.
If I could slip a note into the pocket of a pair jeans that perhaps Jasmine of a friend of
hers would find I would have to say, Im a world away and I hear you loud and clear.
Message recieved my dear. I promise to try for better. Thank You Jasmine for opening my
eyes a little more.
4/25/07
los angeles, california
I make a decent living and need very little in the way of material goods, thankfully. I am
willing to pay a price for the few things that i need so that others can earn a decent
living as well but when i looked through my labels, i saw places like sri lanka, macau,
india and i suspect that practices are no better there. even the made in USA label may
come from saipan and the marianas where practices might be far worse than even those
depicted in this film. where can i go to buy clothing that does not shame me to wear?
4/25/07
Paul
Canada
If any of the many Chinese jeans factories were to make an arrangement that ONE EXTRA
DOLLAR at the point of sale were to make it's way to the workers who assembled it
untouched, they would probably be forced to stop by the Chinese government. Suddenly
China's labour laws which only ever seem to work against workers like Jasmine would
"conveniently" come down on this obvious pay inequity. I hope more people come to
understand just how repressive the Chinese government is.
4/25/07
I watched this last night and it made me feel so sad for the young men and women who are
working for this factory. I cannot believe that Mr. Lam, the factory owner, can be so
cruel to his workers. After watching the program, I felt that I have to check the clothes
that I buy to see if they are made in a poverished country. I feel so horrible that one
human can treat other humans in such a manner that is not even humane. Mr. Lam, even spoke
harshly of the former farm workers saying that they could never understand how to be an
educated person. I feel a strong hatred against him and other slave-run factories. There
were many American and non-American clients of Mr. Lam who even disgusted me more
especially the American woman who said that it is great that the workers are living on the
factory premises. I would have like if someone who have shaken her up and made her realize
that those cement-like dorms do not have running water, sufficient amount of rooms,
adequate space to eat and rest, etc. I also find disgust in the manner that Mr. Lam runs
his �business. I could not believe that one of Mr. Lam�s clients was throwing a fit
because his orders did not arrive on time and he also wanted a deduction of a price for
each pair of jeans or jackets. I could not believe that one minority could treat another
minority so wrongly. What a shameful business to have Mr. Lam and to the other factories
owners. Have you no shame Mr. Lam? (Former police chief taught you to be a corrupt person
inside and out)
4/25/07
V. Katts
After working in a North American jeanswear finishing plant for 15 years I watched China
Blue with great interest.
Our company which was mentioned in China Blue, always worked hard at promoting a good
image to the rest of the world. They would say they were a socially responsible company.
They told us that they checked up on their contract suppliers in other countries to make
sure that there were no human right infringements.
I cringed whenever they proudly told us how they would let these factories know that they
were coming in advance to check on them.
I know that it is bad for many workers in other countries and my heart goes out to them,
but don't be fooled - do you really know what goes on behind closed doors for many workers
in North America?
Our unionized factory had a diverse group of people with the majority of workers from
Vietnam, Korea, Mexico, Poland and India. Many of them were new to our country. They were
afraid to stand up to supervisors who would bully them for more production and threaten
them with disciplinary action that could lead to suspension without pay, and
termination.
Tempers eventually flared to the point we had a bomb scare. Instead of evacuating the
plant the manager held a meeting on the production floor and told us how cowardly the
threat was and that we were to continue working.
Afterwards, a worker from Vietnam came over to me to tell me where to hide, if someone
came in with a gun.
It wasn't until later that I learned that someone had threatened to kill the manager.
4/25/07
A. Trinh
San Gabriel, CA
I had strong reactions to the people in the film. Sympathy for the workers, disgust at the
factory owner, confirmed disgust at the Chinese govt. (and any corrupt 3rd-world govt.),
frustration towards the ignorant Canadian team, and discomfort at myself as a
consumer.
With me, the director achieved what he set out to do. I always knew that the clothes I
bought were 3rd-world made by people who get paid a ridiculously low wage under sweatshop
conditions. I'd read about it. But all this didn't really sink in as reality until I saw
this film. Now, I don't want to buy clothes made from 3rd-world countries anymore, but
then I don't know what to do because most clothes I buy are. I am kind of glad that I
haven't been shopping for a long time, and I especially haven't been to malls that
much.
When I thought about what should I do, I said am I supposed to buy from American Apparel
now? But I don't really like their clothes, and it's expensive for what I'm getting. I
like LL Bean, but I don't like to buy
clothes I can't try on, and they don't have everything I need. Second-hand clothing stores
are an option, but I can't get everything there either. Well, I don't know what to do yet
to be a conscientious buyer. I haven't looked at the whole site yet, but can you list
businesses that have good records for decent treatment of laborers (domestic and
international)?
4/25/07
Jennifer
Los Angeles, CA
I am a twenty two year old college student, and it was not until I went to college that I
became aware of all the many injustices that happen all around the world. I came across
the china blue film by accident while I was flipping through channels. I was very inspired
and moved by the many struggles so many sweat shop workers go through everday just to
provide me with the clothes I buy so easily. I am one of the biggest victorias secret
shoppers. After learning about the many companies that lie and dont promote fair trade I
will not longer shop at victorias secret. I refuse to let huge companies like this one
keep on making millions of dollars so easily by the tears and sweat of so many wonderful
people and are not doing anything to give them the proper working conditions and wages. I
will work hard to spread the knowledge I have learned and make others aware of the
injustices many of the companies we "love" are commiting so they too no longer support
them and help bring justice. Keep up the good work KCET!
4/20/07
Charles Beechler
Greenville, MI
Blue jeans are not the only thing that this happens to. I also lost my job to outsorcing
only it was refrigerators made by electrolux. wages that are low will hurt us all wwhen
the is no one let to explot. I feel very sad about how these chinese grils are being
treated. we americans are also be exploited. we can only wish it on the man at the top how
can they sleep at night!
4/20/07
Richard Lange
Lock Haven, PA
Excellent film! Most people in the USA look at this film with ethnocentric values. Has it
occurred to anyone that the life Jasmine left in the countryside was much worse than
working/living at the factory? If she weren't working, no cash would be going back to her
family. On another level, who do you think is reaping the profits from Chinese labor? The
multi-national corporations, that's who. We the consumer are making the rich executives
and stock holders of these MNC's even richer. We sure aren't making the Chinese laborers
much richer or for that matter the factory owner. The real money goes to the retailers.
The MNC's exploit the workers of the world for more and more profit. The Chinese
government should set a floor price for goods made in their country based on hourly wages
needed to produce those goods. Actually, there should be a floor price for wages the world
over.
4/20/07
Toni Gould
Grand Rapids, MI
This film hit so hard in so many ways that I'm unable to get it out of my mind. One of the
first things I did after viewing it was go online to find companies selling only
American-made (or fair-trade/fair-labor manufacture) items, including clothing--but in an
hour's search I found only a handful of clothing companies, and none that satisfied my
quite modest needs for a small range of all-purpose clothing for women (as opposed to
sports/outdoor or specialty items such as imprinted T-shirts). Do such companies exist?
Where can I go to purchase clothing honorably, without contributing to a kind of slave
trade? I'm willing to pay more even if that means affording fewer things -- if I just can
find an honorable source.
4/18/07
Plymouth, IA
I missed the first few minutes of the film, but found it the best film so far among
several films which have been shown on PBS about the plight of the Chinese people as it
gave a "in your face" look at Little Jasmine's world. Other films have pointed out that
buying products from China also have other side effects:
a. Chinese companies are under no Western style modern pollution controls - leading to
serious water and land pollution which in turn kill and destroy the health of many other
Chinese people who happen to live down stream.
On a related note I recently examined a USB computer cable at a national
╲$1 chain
store╡ here in the U.S. and was wondering why such an item was so
cheap. The back of
this Chinese made product actually had a warning on the back stating that you should wash
your hands after connecting it because it contained lead - so you can imagine what the
factory workers are facing if this obvious dangerous item was not banned by our import
laws. And many of those cheap Chinese
made brake shoes making their way into the U.S. contain asbestos.
b. Many Chinese companies are actually front companies for the Chinese military and other
government agencies. Profits go directly to the oppressive Chinese government.
Its certainly not just Wal-Mart who is constantly presenting goods from China to U.S.
consumers. When I shop in a local mom-and-pop store (who often complain about Wal-Mart
coming into town) I find the rows filled with Chinese made goods. I'd rather buy American
made, even at a greater cost, but I am not given a choice.
The sad fact is that we will not be getting any help from Congress or the President
because these politicians are elected with support of the same corporations which are
exploiting Little Jasmine.
4/18/07
Jessica Muresan
St. Charles, MO
My heart went out for Jasmine and the other young girls who worked under such strenuous
conditions. I felt horrible when Jasmine didn't recieve her first paycheck and was
surprized to learn that this is a common practice to insure their workers don't leave.
I'll try to be more aware when purchasing clothing now. My question is besides looking for
american made products, what brands are okay to buy? I mean the Levi's brand says they are
made in the U.S. but obviously that is untrue.
4/18/07
Chris
Columbus, OH
I find most of hte comments thus far pretty laughable. All of you are lamenting about the
horrible situation in China, in spite of the fact that you purchase Jeans. Several of you
have come up with the "bright" idea of boycotting the firms that practice this, and yet
some others have sought to blame "China" an entier civilization itself for this
situation.
The fact is that boycotting won't work, only because there will be other firms that arise
that will fill the spot. You can't boycott every company. Second the major culprit for
this situation are profit-maximizing firms. It is the firm who demands the cheapest prices
so they can sell the goods at a prodigious profit.
Why do we need such large profits? Probably cause most of these firms are publically
traded, and I'm willing to bet many of you own stocks and would want stocks to go up as
high as possible. In a sense, people who engage in the financial market are exploiting
these people doubly in this matter.But also, the fact is that many of these large
corporations are rather inefficient themselves. Ever heard of the CEO being paid several
hundred million dollars for severance pay? Or the CEO that made 20 million as a bonus? Or
what about hte multitude of other low-stool corporate bureaucrats who really do nothing
but are paid close to 6 figures?
No the issue is much more then "Oppressive China." Part of whats going on here is a
combination of financial market greed/inefficient firms passing their cost at the
manufacturer/rigid Chinese labor market. This problem will require a mult-faceted approach
that needs to engage in the issue of hte idiocy of corporate America as well as labor
markets in China......
4/18/07
Sunbury, OH
This was one of the most moving and motivating programs I've seen on PBS, and many thanks
to all who created it. I cried as I watched this beautiful young girl's life being abused
and used in this horrendous factory. Her note, her desire to share a connection with the
people who wear the product she works so hard on was absolutely heartwrenching.
Of course I am aware of globalization, am pretty much unsure what I personally can do - I
never shop at Wal Mart,but what difference does that make? I've worn, am wearing someone's
jeans, and conditions are probably not much better wherever they've been manufactured. The
global marketplace is controlled by huge forces. Global markets seem inevitable -
inevitable that U.S. living conditions will drop drastically for future generations, while
the third world continues to grow and provide ruthless businesses with ever larger
workforces. I wonder, will we all be living like Jasmine in 50 years? But here is my BIG
question: What happened to this girl? You made me care about her, yet I didn't see
anything about her at the credits...that's so hard to accept!! I don't care if you post my
comments - PLEASE - tell me what happened to her?
4/18/07
Mike N
Farmington Hills - Michig
The more documentaries I see on anything even related to the corporate world and corporate
greed the less surprised I get when I see newer works like China Blue. Its disgusting
plain and simple. It truly is a depressing time to live on this planet. The money, power
and ultimately the control that corporations have on the world today is frightening and I
honestly dont see how its ever going to change. Really if you stop and think about the
overall power these corporations have on everything from individual people to whole
governments is scary. Almost every single problem today can be associated to corporations
on some level and again when I look at the problem I honestly dont see a viable solution
as long as corporations remain the prominent unit in business today. It doesnt matter if
your talking about Diamonds or coffee or clothes, the problems are basically the same
across the board and its because of the corporate body plain and simple. Until some
drastic changes are made worldwide in the basic principals of busniess things like this
will never change. It really is very sad and at times makes me ashamed to even be human.
4/18/07
Seattle, Washington
Rembrandt, IA
I watched the show around 2 am this morning. The fact unveiled was so disturbing that I
stayed awake since, thinking of my fellow country folks got exploited to the max. I
checked the manufacturer of a pair of my Jeans (brand Paris Blue), sure enough, it's Made
in China (I bought it at Nordstrom couple years ago at a Sale price of $29.00). I'm
wearing it with feelings today at work. I very much want to help those young girls but
don't know how. Perhaps me as an individual cannot do much, but I hope the show will wake
up some senses of the exploiters in large.
4/18/07
Sally Rassler
I worked at a clothing factory (Jeans) til it closed and the jobs were consolidated
elsewhere. It is hard work but we were treated very good. And the pay was great. White
watching the film I was enraged by the treatment of the workers and their paultry wages.
Of course they could all quit but like they said the workers were like a dime a dozen. It
seems like they have no respect for humanity just the almighty dollar.
I took pride in my work and enjoyed it. It didn't hurt to have the pay match. I feel for
these people.
4/12/07
Mimi
kailua, Hawaii
i was very surprised about this show. i knew the situation in the third world countries
but i didn't think it would be this bad...
Jasmine is just a teenager let alone the other girls are younger then she is. It is
ridiculous... girls in this decade, would not even think to help and support their family.
i was sick to my stomach about their boss. Regardless about the kind of person that he is,
he should support his workers. PAY ON TIME... American grumble that they are not being
paid of what they do at work or sometimes not enough, now everyone has to step back and
realize the reality that these chinese workers are feeling. Their pay is ridiculously
wrong. There is no way an american will be able to live off from their pay...
i just had to share my thoughts....
mahalo.....
4/12/07
Francis Reda
Edmonton ALBERTA
This is an excellent film that exposes the dark underbelly of Western consumerism. While
the film itself should be seen by every one, I found it deplorable that KSPS chose to
broadcast it only once instead of the usual 2 times within its INDEPENDENT LENS series.
Broadcasting this landmark film only once vastly limited the number of people who could
view it, as well as keeping friends of those who saw it from seeing it themselves. I have
yet to hear from KSPS as to why they only broadcast this film once.
4/11/07
Roger
Phoenix, AZ
This film is definitely brilliant work! as a student from China, I really love it. I have
been working in a software company in Shenzhen City, Canton, which is not far away from
the clothing factory Jasime worked for, I guess. There are a lot of electronic factories,
making things like switches, calculators, computer accessories and products like that. The
working condition of those female workers is no better than those clothing factories. I
think the government in Beijing definitely know these facts and how far it is from what
they promise to its people. however, China also want to maintain a high economical growth.
it is very tough issue, if people in West refuse to buy these jeans made in sweatshops
like Lifong factory or the factory owner pay more salary to the workers, multinational
companies can easy find (they don't even invest one!) a factory in somewhere in Southeast
of Asia, or any developing countries in the world, thus workers like Jasime will
eventually loss her job and head back to back country living maybe a worse life.
4/11/07
Reanna
Spokane, WA
As a citizen of the United States of America, I am guilty of the implication, both the
good and the bad, of globalization. On the positive side, issues such as those addressed
in the documentary "China Blue" keep me in hot pursuit of my life's passion; to earn my
Doctoral degree in Women's Studies. On the darker side, as said citizen, I find myself
surrounded by commodities produced in China on a daily basis. My awareness has allowed me
to be vigilant in my purchases, but unfortunately only to a point. I, too, am a victim of
a corrupt social process. As a single mother with a limited income, I experience my own
(but far from unique) set of social injustices. I want to bypass the goods made in China,
but often my budget does not allow that. Do the labels declaring my son's shirt as having
been made in Taiwan or Japan or Brazil offer any guarantee that they, too, were not the
result of a similar process to that we witnessed in "China Blue?" I sadly think the answer
is most likely not.
As mentioned, I have benefited from globalization in that I have an iron-clad goal and a
place I want to go in life (the catch is hanging in there until I finally make it). I have
never accepted this society, or the rest of the world, at face value. Questions have been
my specialty since childhood. I don't care if you are happy with the âthis is how we do
it" or "this is how it has always been;" I am not. What I have ultimately lost
is a
respect for my fellow citizens and others who willingly exploit those who are less
advantaged for money, wealth, greed, and capitalism. I have lost the innocence of the
ideology of traditions, regardless of their origins. I have gained a better understanding
of the corruption that often accompanies power; I have lost a respect for those who seek
power and will do next to anything to impede those who interfere with their journey. I
have learned to appreciate that the ends do not always justify the means.
Thank you Micha Peled for the risks you took to put this documentary together, and thank
you PBS for airing it; you are always welcome in my living room.
4/11/07
Ryan Mercer
Spokane, WA
I would like to be fortunate enough to buy a pair of jeans containing one of Jasmine's
discrete letters. I would be pleased to read her thoughts and willing to pay for the
translation. My heart goes out to her, and the many endless others. I would write back, if
I could.
"Thank you for writing. Your thoughts will not be forgotten."
4/11/07
Dorothy Pizzuti
Seattle, WA
Bravo - I am so glad I caught the film. This is just insane. I am not buying anything made
in China until things change. This film is exactly what I needed to get myself in gear.
Hang in there Jasmine!
4/11/07
Kim Stockman
Eau Claire, MI
I watched the last 30 min of china blue,wished i would have been able to see the whole
thing,but i knew this kind of wickedness has been going on for many years! I work in
retail,and many of our boxes say,made in china,or malawi,or kenya,india,all of those
countries either hire poor laborer's or prison labor,which if they dont meet their quota
of clothes making,they get a bullet in the head.I would not want to live if i had to work
like that,be better to put a gun to your head,but this is china too,the only ones who have
gun's are the military and the police,that's what's wrong with gov'mts where the people
dont have access to gun's and to retaliate against the gov'mt,even our own gov'mt need's
to be violently overthrown,it's useless and wicked.
I'm not into popular fashion(hilfiger,south pole,fubu etc)but wal-mart is about all i can
afford at times,i work retail and the pay is low,many american's have low paying job's,so
where can we AFFORD to shop,but walmart? Our gov'mt here has boxed most people in as faras
wages are concerned,there really isnt any choice,and that is due to the wickedness of our
gov'mt and our wicked american businessmen.I felt horrible for those chinese workers,but
sweatshop's EXIST right here in our own country as well,we just dont know about it,and our
media doesnt care to report it(big gov'mt backed media,NBC,CBS etc)that's why i like to
watch Independent Lens and other PBS documentaries,at least SOME of the truth is being
told.
4/11/07
Minneapolis, MN
My heart is bleeding! I have heard of Chinese labor practice many times before. This is
the first time that I feel sick to my stomach.
Seeing these young people traveled far away from their family to work 17,20 hour days not
for themselves but to support their family , and yet they don¡¯t get paid on
time or at
all, I have the urge to get this factory shut down. But there are thousands of such
factories across China. The owner, with his background and support from political friends
will simply open another factory probably in the same city or even on the same street
under a different name. He understands better than anyone else that local government needs
his factory to bring in the tax money, so whatever the punishment maybe is for show and
only temporary. Beside, the owner will probably use the excuse that factory got shut down
to stop payments on all overdue accounts, including his workers.
I believe there is a solution. If China really wants to improve the working condition and
enforce, regulate lawful labor practices, central Chinese government will take charge of
all factory audits instead of leaving this critical task to the local government. However,
it¡¯s sad to say I don¡¯t think that central government is ready to do
that yet. The
economy, the GDP growth needs to be maintained and through out Chinese history pay a high
human price in the goal for a stronger and better China are not only tolerated, but often
encouraged. The little people often pays the heaviest price.
I am frustrated by the fact that there is little I can do. As a consumer I can choice
carefully what I buy and who do I buy from. However, since one factory may produce many
different brands for multiple retailers, it¡¯s probably impossible to know the
truth
behind these merchandise. I suggest WTO create a new certification that can only be
acquired once the factory passes random inspections and proves that it meets all lawful
international labor practice. We, the consumers will only purchase products that carry
this certification.
4/11/07
J.C.
Watching a film like this always touches one's heart. However, it's just upsetting to see
so many people become hypocrites after watching films such as China Blue.
Keep in mind, it takes time for a nation to turn around in its economics. And a healthy
economy is often a minimum pre-requisite before human rights issues can start to get
addressed. It takes time and suffering of a few generation to build that basis. So it's
always easy for one to live in a wealthy nation and feel pity for the suffering of others
because he/she has to luxury to do so. Unfortunately, the case of human rights abuse is
not even the key issue here!
It's always easy to comment that the factory owner should be SHOT, and curse the
international corporations for being greedy and exploitory towards developing nations. But
please people, think hard and figure out the real reason why all of THEM are trying so
hard to squeeze every bit out of the struggling working class everywhere in the world (
US included). It's the demand of the common consumers like you and me that's driving
companies around the world to do everything they can to be the low cost leader. Do you
shop based on price, do you invest based on company financial performance? Of course, you
do!! Otherwise, you're just lying to yourself. If there's one group that should be blamed
for labor exploitation, it's average consumers in wealthy nations and the very human
nature of always wanting to get more for what we give up. Feel shame for what you do in
your daily life that contribute to this kind of exploitation, and reflect on how to change
YOUR DAILY behavior. Don't cry about how others are being so heartless. Look deep within,
do you really find peace inside?
4/11/07
Sharilyn Hartwell
Kansas City, KS
I have seen China Blue and felt so very saddened for the plight of many of its citizens.
How can we stop these abuses? Please continue reading for a take on what I have been doing
towards our own problems here at home that will also help those abroad. Remember: WE
CANNOT HELP THEM IF OUR OWN COUNTRY FALLS BY THE WAYSIDE. And right now it is FALLING
BEFORE OUR VERY EYES!
I have been knowledgeable (for several decades) of the disastrous consequences and
therefore have always been opposed to both Presidents' Clinton and Bush, JR in signing of
the so called "free trade" agreements NAFTA,WTO, GATT (the "teeth of enforcement of NAFTA)
as well as the latest CAFTA. These agreements have not only economically hurt American
workers but all the workers of the world.
As well I have been boycotting certain companies for the last three decades (1980's and
beyond) as they relocated their companies to third world condition countries including
Mexico and China, etc. One in particular is NIKE -- I haven't bought a single product of
theirs since the 1980's! I used to have a film (unreturned from a friend)that showed then
the many American companies who had relocated their plants to Mexico ... one I
particularly remember was Kodak. These companies even provided housing units for the
workers! not so in our country, huh?
4/11/07
Sarah Suojanen
Los Angeles, CA
While I wholeheartedly concur that global corporate leaders should be viewed
contemptuously for their treatment of factory workers, it is all too convenient to drop
the entirety of the blame upon them. The person that we should hold most accountable for
this American exportation of inhumane labor standards is the American consumer
himself.
The images in China Blue are all too reminiscent of soot covered boys in American coal
mines. Eerily similarly, remember the pictures of young girls in American textile mills
whose small nimble fingers where needed to work the powerful and often bone crushing
looms? Before the rise of containerization that made the cost of importing goods into the
US negligible, Americans where virtually reliant upon American-only manufactured goods.
The turn-of-the-century labor movements that raised working standards and reduced child
labor quite logically raised the price of US manufactured goods.
The world is abundant, we just have to do a better job of sharing! Moreover, capitalism
can successfully distribute resources, so long as we learn to internalize negative
externalities and pay the "true cost" of goods.
4/10/07
Patricia
Watching China Blue has totally changed my attitude towards shopping. I had heard of
sweatshops before but nothing like this. In my country (somewhere in Africa) I used to
work for a dollar a day, we did overtime which wasn't by choice and only got paid once
every two months or whenever the boss felt that he had made enough. What I experienced
then seems like nothing compared to what I saw in China Blue. I felt so helpless as I
watched 'Little Jasmine' and the others working for hours on end and living in such
deplorable housing conditions. If we stop supporting those companys that import these
jeans (by changing the way we shop) we could make a powerful statement. I know it may seem
like a drop in the ocean but every single one counts.
4/10/07
Milton
Chicago,Il
I saw the film and I'm very touch to see Jasmine working when she should be at school.
It's there any way I can give a donations to her so she can go back to school. It's sad to
see what they earn a day and getting paid in once a month.
4/10/07
Jvan
Vancouver bc
Thank-you for making this brilliant piece of work , it`s no wonder immigrants give up
their professions and come here to do any job that many of us take for granted.
4/10/07
Vincent Mielnicki
Rochester, New York
Wow! these poor kids being exploited for the sake of fashion in the western world. it
really is deplorable to me that the factory owners have no conscience. I thought your
documentary was telling the truth. the populations in the west need to know the truth
about how the workers that made those jeans are suffering. little jasmine and her
co-workers should be in school being prepared for their adult lives.
4/10/07
Dan
Cincinnati, OH
I agree with one comment about in the 80's people didn't care that the US garment industry
went away. How can a Made in the USA company compete against a labor pool that is so
cheap. I am for free trade but how can you have free trade if the standards you have are
above those of another country. I think free trade will only work if it is a level playing
field. Being an employer here is costly with health insurance, taxes etc.
The flip side is how would these people make a living if there wasn't a factory there.
What standards do their home countries have? If people didn't buy the jeans as the
documentary makes you feel would it help or hurt these people making it? Hopefully shining
a light on this will keep everyone aware this is going on.
4/10/07
Mataki
San Francisco, CA
Very moving film!!! I loved it. I would like to see the original version so I could get
the total experience of this documentary. I watch Independent Lens regularly & have
purchased many of the films for the full-length versions...what a difference! China Blue
blew me away & I can't wait to get it on DVD!
Way to go Mr. Peled, I can't wait to see your next film!
4/10/07
Isaac
Jackson, MS
I watched China Blue, and I must confess that it was sickening. Sickening that people are
willing to subject their fellow human beings to the lowest levels of indignities, all for
the sake of profits. The Chinese are very good, or is it BAD at this. I come from Zambia
in Africa where the Chinese have heavily invested. The inhuman treatment the girls get in
China Blue is nothing compared to what the Zambian workers are subjected to. This thing
needs to be brought to a stop.
4/10/07
Tom
Chesapeake, VA
Thank you and all those who courageously made produced this compelling documentary on the
plight of the Chinese factory workers. This is a complex issue that all free people of
this world need to address from all sides. Not only are the working and living conditions
deplorable, but the greed demonstrated by everyone from the factory management, wholesale
buyers, retailers and even we consumers, contributes to these workers' plight. I pray this
film will serve as the catalyst that initiates changes throughout the vicious cycle that
will bring relief to these workers and millions of others like them around the world.
THANK YOU AGAIN!!!
4/10/07
Seattle, WA
This is a global problem those conditions exist in our own back yard and everywere. (Fast
food nation). The wall mart and buyer extortion on the manufacturer was the real villan
forceing the profit margin into these working condition extremes. Our make a buck at all
costs in this country fosters this kind of abuse of labor. Also the iron fist versus
relaxed management style is another curse of world wide manufactureing. Which causes
catastrophic disease and social problems. Chinese bussiness will learn eventually what it
takes to create a productive workforce as in demming and the japanese war reconstruction.
Which created a driven dynamo in the 50s on.
4/10/07
Oh, man. Ineffectual liberal elite Americans boycotting Wal Mart... Did you really believe
reality was any different BEFORE you saw the film? We live in a society that places the
mindless acquisition of 'stuff' above all else, and endlessly drives that acquisition at
the lowest possible price. What else could we expect? I recently bought a pair of blue
jeans from a mid-western regional retailer with a culivated "benign business practices"
image, as contrasted with that of the "evil" W.M. Those pants, made in Latin America, cost
me $8. I'm as guilty as the guy running the sweatshop in which they were made. This is not
a Chinese story. Economic "efficiency" drives this problem globally. What do we REALLY
want to do about it?
4/10/07
Angel
Zunyi and Zhanjiang
So true about the factory labor and the working conditions. I lived in China 6 years and
had talks with such girls. But the factories are not the only place where one finds a
young girl, I see them as young a 12 working in small restaurants and night eateries,
working as late as 2am. What can I do other than make a xiao mei mei giggle a little,
breaks me up.
From Los Angeles, in Zunyi and Zhanjiang, China.
4/10/07
Mindy Waren
Perkins, OK
I just got home today from the hospital today and was catching up on my DVR events. Next
to eachother were episodes of Intervention and Independent lens. I watched China Blue
before intervention and realized most drug addicts in America have a better way of life
than those featured in China Blue, and by no fault of their own. Jasmine made the
statement about her parents accidentally having her and she had to make up for it since
extra daughter's weren't a hot commodity in their culture/economy. She had no choice in
being born into that but drug addicts choose their lifestyle. It is a sad reality, as
human beings we should be ashamed. If everyone would just share a little bit of the wealth
all the way around, there would be no need for child labor! As Americans, we can take a
stand but it is a world-wide problem, so let's all start taking some of the blame. Good
film, I was really curious if we could get the address that Jasmine sent out so we may
write her a letter and let her know we value her and disagree with their treatment as
employees. Let those who still have love and empathy in our hearts reach out to those who
need it, there is lots of love to go around too.
4/10/07
Bitzy
Springfield, MO
Very powerful documentary! Thank you for having the vision and insight to make it. I
wonder though how much the US Import Tax is on them how much not only our govt. makes on
each pair but also the companies actually make on the jeans that sell them. Most of the
other questions I have thought of have been asked. I just wonder how much our govt. has to
do with the final cost by taxing and such.
4/10/07
Julie E
Bloomington, IN
It's all well and good to expose the practices of the American companies that are
exploiting workers overseas. But it appears to me that most of you are forgetting that the
governments and profiteers of these countries are just as much to blame, if not more so.
China treats its people with little or no regard to individual rights... and the people
who own these businesses in China are making a lot of money off of these workers as well.
4/10/07
Jessica Thompson
Aurora IL
I stumbled across this showing of China Blue and it captured me immediatly. It definitly
opened my eyes regarding more human rights violations going on across the world. But now I
am again frustrated not knowing how to truly make a difference for these poor workers.
It's very difficult not to completely resent the wealthy of this world as "they" seem to
continue to pad their bank accounts living off the backs of the poor. I realize how
fortunate I am for living here and having an education and a decent career and while in
this country I'm just a working slob like most of us, I want to make responsible decisions
aiding those in need and not contributing to their destitution and enslavement. But our
way of living is so emeshed into this corrupt way of using others for our own comfort, it
seems we as a society go about it without much thought. As we buy, crazy expensive
handbags and Hummers to drive around in. It leaves me feeling overwhelmed and just plain
not sure what to do. Reject society altogether? This story never seems to end the rich
want to keep getting richer at the cost of others lives. How can I make a difference for
these people that make my jeans? How can I truly effect their personal lives in a positive
way, give me a way and I will do it? Life is precious, all life, especially the most
vulnerable. We have to take care of each other. Thank you for showing this film, we can't
change what we don't acknowledge. That much I do know.
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