The fight for labour rights goes way back in history, to the brutal conditions of the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. Although labour exploitation still exists, the protests and sacrifices made by past generations secured the workplace rights many of us enjoy today. However, truly understanding these struggles can be quite tough. This is where films step in.
By experiencing these stories through movies and documentaries, we can cultivate empathy and gain a deeper appreciation for the rights we have inherited. So, on the occasion of May Day, let us explore some movies and documentaries that highlight the power and importance of the movements for workers’ rights:
Made in Bangladesh (2019)
A Bangladeshi film directed by Rubaiyat Hossain, revolves around a 23-year old garment-worker named Shimu who fights for workers’ rights despite the threats and disapproval she faces. Made in Bangladesh has been released in several countries, premiered in notable film festivals and has received the National Film Award.
The Organizer (1963)
The Organizer, also known as I compagni (The Comrades) in Italian, is a film set in late 19th century Turin, Italy. Professor Sinigaglia, a former teacher turned labour activist, rallies the workers to fight for their rights when a disgruntled worker loses a hand in an accident with no compensation and tensions rise. Through his guidance and the workers’ collective strength, they commence a strike, facing hurdles and sacrifices along the way. The Organizer is known for its perfect blend of social commentary, dark humour, and dramatic storytelling, offering a nuanced look at the fight for labour rights.
Norma Rae (1979)
A classic film telling the true story of Crystal Lee Sutton, a single mother working in a Southern textile mill who awakens to unfair labour practices. Inspired by a union organiser, she rallies her coworkers to fight for better wages and working conditions. This film promptly sparks a powerful story of courage and solidarity.
The Breadwinner (2017)
This is an animated film set in war-torn Afghanistan, where women are denied the right to participate in the labour force. After her father gets unfairly arrested, Parvana disguises herself as a boy to support her family, despite the risk of being executed if her truth gets exposed.
Bread and Roses (2000)
This film is based on the campaign “Justice for Janitors” by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) in the USA. The film revolves around Maya and her sister, two undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles, working as low-paid janitors in a non-union company. Inspired by a union organiser, Maya eventually fights for better work conditions, clashing with her sister who prioritises financial stability. Through Maya’s journey, the film explores the struggles in the fight for workers’ rights and criticises inequalities in the United States.
North Country (2005)
North Country (2005) is a drama film that is loosely based on the real-life case of Jenson v. Eveleth Taconite Company, the first successful class-action lawsuit for sexual harassment in the United States. Josey Aimes, a single mother, escapes an abusive situation and takes a demanding job in Minnesota’s iron mines. Adding to her misery, Josey faces constant sexual harassment from her male coworkers. Despite the pressure to stay silent, Josey decides to fight for justice and unites with a few other women to take on the mining company in a groundbreaking lawsuit. North Country emphasizes the courage it takes to challenge sexual harassment in a hostile work environment and the resilience of those who fight for dignity and respect.
Short documentaries
Made in Bangladesh
Made in Bangladesh won the International Emmy Award 2014 for Current Affairs Programming. This documentary sheds light on the Rana Plaza tragedy and the ruthless human costs of the flourishing RMG sector of Bangladesh.
Find the documentary here: https://youtu.be/onD5UOP5z_c?si=dyACb7txNETgZvQu
How Britain used India to replace slave labour
This 12-minute long documentary by AJ+ sheds light on how Britain tactfully came up with an alternative of slavery after it was abolished. They called the alternative “Indenture.”
Find it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MgWU_EUcWlc?si=MQ1aLIoPD_F_CZnI
Uncovering eight-year-old children working in factories
This is a documentary by VICE Asia that uncovers the heart-wrenching truth of child labour in the brick factories of Nepal.
You can watch this documentary on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ak4GR9qGi-Y?si=boVhLnyTIHRLDJ23
Bangladesh | Too young to work
It’s an award-winning documentary by Al Jazeera that explores different aspects of the painful reality of child-labour in Bangladesh.
This documentary is easily accessible on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GsLpvPqi-70?si=gaPefHsT_-J3TbKv
Toxic tanneries poisoning workers in Bangladesh
Another short documentary by VICE Asia, it showcases the brutal truth of unethical labour practices in the tanneries of Bangladesh.
Available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cHAaS_jaqu4?si=tqkNc3UwGISkxmeR