Rep Grace Meng (D-NY) is calling on US retailers with garment factories in Bangladesh to clean up working conditions there, reports the NY Daily News (photo by Time Asi).
More than 1,100 workers died a year ago this coming Thursday when an eight-story factory there collapsed, also injuring 2,500.
“By remembering them on the anniversary, we are asking those who have the power, those who can make a difference, who can change the working conditions, to help,” said Maf Uddin, president of the Alliance of South Asian American Labor. “Change will happen only if they come forward.”
Meng met with Reba Sikder — a 19-year-old garment worker who was rescued after being buried under debris for two days. Meng is urging companies like Wal-Mart, Gap, American Apparel and Footwear to protect subcontracted workers there.
“The factory collapse was a horrific tragedy caused by the deplorable working and safety conditions that exist at the garment plants in Bangladesh,” Meng said. She sits on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
On Thursday, Bangladesihis in Queens will light a candle to remember all those who died a year ago in the tragedy.
You can hear from a survivor and more on Thursday’s vigil in the NY Daily News.
