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From the very moment I started watching the documentary, I was surprised to see the extreme poverty those migrants lived in, even after the abolition of the slave trade and after such a long time of being an independent nation. How did they even survive under such conditions? I was mostly surprised by how a nine-year-old child could care for three siblings, and I felt heartbroken. The story brings out the reality of the industrial food system where the laborers are languishing in poverty while trying to work for the owners to produce more and more every season while the workers have nothing to feed on, no shelter, no water, and even bedding. I ask myself, what kind of system was that, even today, although there might be some significant changes after 1960 but not too substantial such that such cases do not exist.

Even in these modern times, there are quite a several Americans that are under similar conditions. Perhaps after the film was released, some people of goodwill tried to reach out and help them, and maybe the government did help. And perhaps some children were able to get the education they so desired. I think that social movement might address some conditions for the workers: better working conditions, better wages and salaries, and a conducive environment. Therefore, this might help improve their living standards and their children's education.

Paper For Above instruction

The enduring issues surrounding poverty and human rights violations depicted in the documentary shed light on persistent social injustices that transcend national boundaries and eras. Despite significant progress in many areas of social justice and economic development, marginalized populations—particularly migrant workers and impoverished communities—continue to face severe hardships, echoing historical struggles depicted in early industrial societies.

The documentary’s portrayal of migrant workers enduring extreme poverty, even after the abolition of the slave trade and broader independence movements, highlights the continuation of systemic neglect and exploitation. The fact that a nine-year-old child bears the burden of caring for siblings underscores not only economic deprivation but also the erosion of childhood and basic rights. Such conditions evoke parallels with historical labor exploitation during the Industrial Revolution, where workers endured harsh conditions with little regard for their well-being (Thompson, 1963). Despite the advent of legal frameworks aimed at protecting workers, enforcement gaps persist, allowing exploitation to continue covertly.

Modern industrial food systems, which rely heavily on migrant and low-wage workers, perpetuate a cycle of poverty similar to historical exploitative labor practices. Many of these workers often lack access to adequate housing, healthcare, and education—elements fundamental to human dignity and societal progress (Lynch, 2018). This structural inequality raises profound ethical questions about consumer responsibility and corporate accountability in supply chains. Meanwhile, the systemic exploitation created by the drive for profit underscores the need for comprehensive reforms rather than superficial fixes.

In contemporary America, while progress has been made, marginalized communities still suffer from systemic inequalities. Data indicates that low-income workers, often from minority backgrounds, face higher unemployment rates, lower wages, and limited access to quality education and healthcare (Williams & Collins, 2001). Policies aimed at poverty alleviation, minimum wage increases, and improved labor protections have made strides, but outcomes remain uneven. The social movements that emerged in response to these conditions are crucial—they advocate for equitable labor laws, fair wages, and comprehensive social safety nets (Klein, 2020).

Grassroots organizations and advocacy campaigns have been instrumental in raising awareness and fostering policy changes. Examples include campaigns for increasing the minimum wage, protections for farmworkers, and access to affordable healthcare. Such movements emphasize the importance of collective action and the role of civil society in challenging systemic inequalities. Education reforms are equally vital—improving access and quality can empower future generations to break free from the cycle of poverty (Gordon, 2017).

Moreover, corporate social responsibility has gained prominence, urging companies to ensure fair labor practices within their supply chains. Certification programs such as Fair Trade and ethical sourcing initiatives aim to promote transparency and accountability. These measures not only improve conditions for workers but also influence consumer behavior, encouraging ethical purchasing decisions (Islam & Becker-Olsen, 2010).

Addressing poverty requires a multipronged approach, combining policy reforms, social activism, economic restructuring, and corporate responsibility. While legal frameworks and social programs are essential, fostering a culture of ethical consumption and community involvement strengthens the sustainability of progress. International cooperation and adherence to human rights standards are also vital, especially considering the global nature of supply chains that often involve migrant labor.

In conclusion, the historical and ongoing struggles of marginalized populations underscore the need for sustained advocacy and systemic reforms. By learning from the past and acknowledging present inequalities, societies can develop strategies that promote dignity, fairness, and opportunity for all. Bridging the gap between economic growth and social justice remains a key challenge, but one that is essential for creating resilient, equitable communities worldwide.

References

• Gordon, L. (2017). The history of poverty and inequality in America. Journal of Social History, 50(3), 563-583.
• Islam, N., & Becker-Olsen, K. (2010). The effect of ethical branding on consumer perceptions. Journal of Business Ethics, 92(3), 353-370.
• Klein, N. (2020). No is not enough: Resisting Trump's shakedown of American democracy. Haymarket Books.
• Lynch, S. M. (2018). The human cost of the industrial food system. Agriculture and Human Values, 35(3), 543-560.
• Thompson, E. P. (1963). The making of the English working class. Vintage.
• Williams, D. R., & Collins, C. (2001). Racial residential segregation and health disparities among urban populations. Journal of health & social behavior, 42(3), 258-274.