From Rana Plaza to Fashion Revolution- Commemorating a Tragedy with a Worldwide Demand for Ethical Fashion

On April 24, 2013, the global fashion industry faced one of its darkest days when the Rana Plaza building in Dhaka, Bangladesh, collapsed. Over 1,100 lives were lost, and thousands more were left injured. The aftermath revealed the perilous conditions faced by garment workers and sparked an international outcry. The visual impact of the tragedy was profound—images of the rubble with garments bearing the tags of global brands starkly illustrated the link between consumer products and the workers who make them.

In the hours and days following the collapse, photos circulated showing victims clutching clothing tags from international brands. These poignant images served as a visual testimony to the harsh realities of garment manufacturing, highlighting the personal cost hidden behind the price tags of global fashion.

A Revolution Born from Tragedy

The public’s reaction to these images was one of horror and disbelief, leading to an urgent call for change across the industry. This led to the inception of the Fashion Revolution, a movement dedicated to ensuring such a tragedy never occurs again. One of the significant changes advocated by the movement is the push for greater transparency in the fashion supply chain.

In response, some brands have begun to adopt more transparent practices, including providing information on garment tags not just about the material and care instructions, but also about the workers who made the clothes. These tags sometimes list the name of the worker or the factory where the garment was made, offering consumers a direct link to the origin of their clothing. This practice aims to humanize the production process, reminding consumers of the real people behind their apparel.

Advocating for Systematic Change

The Fashion Revolution has grown into a global phenomenon, with participants and supporters from all over the world. Each year during Fashion Revolution Week, consumers, activists, and brands come together to honour the victims of Rana Plaza by advocating for systemic changes that prioritize worker safety, fair wages, and environmental sustainability.

The movement’s central message, encapsulated by the query “Who made my clothes?” encourages a critical examination of fashion consumption habits. It challenges individuals and companies alike to consider the social and environmental impacts of their practices and to strive for an industry that respects both people and the planet.

Closing

“Remember, change begins with a single question. This Fashion Revolution Week, ask, ‘Who made my clothes?’ and be a part of transforming our fashion industry.”