The Weavers

The Weavers

Tibet

July 1999

Prior to going to Tibet, I had it in mind to purchase a handmade rug while I was there.  Then I went to this weaving factory and saw the work conditions and my heart sank.  Women and teenagers worked here under the most adverse conditions.  They worked for hours in cramped physical conditions.  They worked without breaks and without any fresh air.  They work without sick days and vacation days, without a pension or health insurance. They work without any protection against an abusive boss.  And they are the lucky one because they have employment.

I don't know what to do about the poverty in our world.  I don't know how to bring about change so that women and children have better lives. But I didn't buy a rug.