John, Fast fashion workers in Bangladesh are literally dying for a living wage, with police using sticks, rubber bullets and even live rounds against protesters. Recent protests have pushed the government to announce a hike in the minimum wage last month -- it's still only half of what workers need for shelter, food, and other necessities. But we can't leave them to fight this alone. With enough public pressure, we can make Gap and other global fashion brands ensure that their supply chains are sweatshop-free. H&M, a close competitor of Gap, has just agreed to increase what it pays in Bangladesh. That's why a spotlight on Gap right now could work: Tell Gap: Support a living wage for your garment workers in Bangladesh! Bangladeshi garment workers have long endured inadequate pay and harsh working conditions to produce apparel for some of the world's largest fashion brands. These workers aren’t just demanding a wage increase; they’re fighting for a fundamental change in how they are valued and treated. This is about more than just numbers on a paycheck; it's about respect, dignity, and fairness. The response of the Bangladeshi government to these protests has been alarmingly repressive. The fact that 23,000 workers have been sued and hundreds arrested is a blatant attempt to silence their legitimate demands, but we can support them today — and if enough of us take action, we can create a groundswell that the fashion industry won’t be able to ignore. By supporting higher purchase prices, H&M set a precedent in the fast fashion industry. If Gap does the same, it could create a ripple effect, encouraging other major players to move before they're the next target of a public campaign. This isn't just about improving conditions in Bangladesh; it's about transforming the global garment industry into a more ethical and sustainable sector. When you sign this petition, you're helping to build a future where fair wages and safe working conditions are the norm, not the exception. Tell Gap: Follow H&M's lead and raise purchase prices for garments made in Bangladesh!  Thanks for all that you do, More information: Bangladesh: Union leaders say cases have been filed against 23,000 garment workers in connection with recent minimum wage protests Business & Human Rights Resource Centre. 15 November 2023.
23,000 garment workers sued for unrest over minimum wage: union leaders The Daily Star. 15 November 2023.
H&M increases prices paid to its Bangladesh garment suppliers Just Style. 24 November 2023.
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