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One of the only unionized factories in El Salvador, Just Garments, is struggling to get out of debt and start up a new business plan. Just Garments makes clothing with a 100 percent 'sweat-free' and unionized work force. It was started by workers formerly employed at a Taiwanese-owned factory called Tainan.

As is often the case, when Tainan workers decided to join the Textile Industry Workers Union (STIT), management immediately announced the plant's closure. But the workers led an international campaign that resulted in a garment-shop with two directors--one selected by Tainan, the other selected by the workers--and the first union contract in the industry.

As an alternative to sweatshops, Just Garments works to protect the physical and emotional health of its employees. The workers experience open communication with management.

Rare for any Salvadoran factory, Just Garments does not put a limit on bathroom breaks and has clean drinking water on site. The factory also has an air filtration system that filters out lint from the machines, preventing respiratory problems.

In a risky move, Just Garments recently turned down a deal with Gap to sell Just Garments in its stores and will not look to sell to other large brands because these corporations take the majority of the profits, leaving the workers with three or four pennies per shirt. This decision leaves Just Garments needing all the support it can get.

To keep Just Garments around, send a tax-deductible donation to its emergency fund at: Activist San Diego, 4246 Wightman Street, San Diego, California 92105-2618. Make checks out to "Activist San Diego" with "STIT--Just Garments" written in the memo line.

You can also make a donation on-line by going to www.JustGarments.net, clicking on "support" and following the instructions on that page. Donations go toward maintaining this project and further developing its product line. You can also order Just Garments clothing online at web sites like www.nosweatapparel.com and www.crispaz.org.

Expiration Date:
Sun, 04/30/2006 - 6:00pm