3. The True Cost
I’ve always known that sweatshops existed and have been a major problem for decades in many countries. It wasn’t until I watched this 2015 documentary that I realized how closely related many of my own shopping and consumption habits have been to the problem.
I was always the girl who couldn’t fathom paying more than $25 for a pair of jeans and $15 for a shirt. This is an option that exists as a result of the era of “fast fashion.” Clothes designed to encourage people to buy more, more often, with the illusion that they are spending less.
What I can tell you is this: the true cost of that cheap shirt is literally human life. A poorer quality of life than most people could imagine, and in some cases, death. I am thankful the film’s website offers a list of retailers who are willing to invest in safe and responsible manufacturing. Some stores I’ve frequented in the past are now on a list of places I’ll never support again. The information presented in the film is so profound, for me the decision to drop them is a no-brainer.
What’s amazing about the quality of documentaries being produced today is that the filmmakers have found a truly engaging way to expose people to concepts and facts, and keep them interested enough through various outlets to take real and meaningful action.
People want to live authentic lives, where they’re confident in the knowledge they have access to, and can use it to act toward their best interest and the best interests of those they love. The three documentaries, and so many more being produced today, are helping people do just that.