Justice for Global Garment Workers

The women who make our clothes are paid poverty wages in the supply chains of Canadian retailers and fashion brands. The Steelworkers Humanity Fund has released a major report showing that garment workers can barely afford the basic life necessities for their families. Poverty wages are the result of decisions made by Canadian companies and global brands.

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About the Campaign

The wages that Bangladeshi garment sector workers are paid do not come close to what is needed for women to escape poverty, no matter how hard they work. This situation has been made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Report: Not Even the Bare Minimum

The Steelworkers Humanity Fund has released a ground-breaking report, Not Even the Bare Minimum, on the wages and living conditions of Bangladesh’s garment sector making clothes in factories supplying Canadian brands and fashion retailers.

Take the Pledge!

Take the USW pledge to ensure the women garment workers receive a living wage!

What is a Living Wage?

A living wage is the minimum amount that allows a worker and their family access to everyday basics such as food, housing, healthcare, education, clothing and transportation, in no more than a 48-hour work week.

The Responsibility of Canadian Clothing Brands

Canadian clothing brands have the power and resources to ensure their suppliers provide decent salaries and working conditions to workers.

How USW Supports Bangladeshi Garment Workers

Jointly with other Canadian unions, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund has been there to amplify the women’s stories and voices, learning from them and supporting them along the way.

Latest News »

Jul 22, 2021

Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $45,000 to Support Bangladeshi Garment Workers Affected by Corporate Wage Theft

“Canadian garment brands and retailers have a responsibility to protect the incomes of the women working in their global supply chains.”

Apr 22, 2021

Remembering the victims of the Rana Plaza disaster: building a safer, fairer and sustainable recovery for garment sector workers

April 24 marks the grim anniversary of one of the world’s worst industrial disasters that killed at least 1,132 garment workers and injured more than 2,500 when the Rana Plaza building collapsed 8 years ago in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Mar 22, 2021 · Media Release

New Report Links Canadian Retailers to Never-Ending Hardships of Bangladeshi Garment Workers

Steelworkers Humanity Fund report establishes clear connection between Canadian retailers and Bangladeshi garment factories that trap workers – primarily women – in poverty and struggle.