Date of publication: June 28, 2007
Source: Austin-American Statesman
Author: Carla Cheatham, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, RELIGION AND LABOR NETWORK OF AUSTIN
Excerpt from article:
On June 21, Austin took a bold stand to become the first "sweat free" city in Texas.
Adopting the Procurement Code for Humane Workplace Conditions, the City Council ensured that the $2 million in tax money it spends each year on uniforms and garments will not go to suppliers who engage in sweatshop abuses. As defined by the U.S. Department of Labor, this means two or more violations of the most basic labor laws: sexual abuse or intimidation, illegal workplace hazards, overtime or wage violations, or the use of child, indentured or slave labor.
In becoming a "sweat free" community, Austin joins over 150 cities, counties and states nationwide that have made a commitment to supporting legal and humane workplaces. Championed by the Austin Sweatfree Campaign and sponsored by Council Members Mike Martinez, Sheryl Cole and Lee Leffingwell, the ordinance puts Austin - long known for its environmental leadership - on the map as a leader in human rights as well...