Last saturday afternoon more then 1000 people gathered in Palasanpa in the community of Sanpatrignano to watch the documentary ‘The True Cost’. This documentary talks about the hidden world of ‘fast fashion’ showing stories of exploitation of many garment laborers throughout the world and shares the experience of the many people in the fashion industry who fight for a more sustainable and honest way of working.

the audience

still of the film – post consumer textile wastes

still of the film – post consumer textile wastes

After having shown it last year to the girls of the textile sector I thought it would have been important to share the experience with the whole community and hear their feedback and opinions on the matter. I strongly believe that unless we see the faces of the people who make our clothes and hear their stories there will be no consideration for their faith; unless each of us becomes aware of what cheap labour means in terms of human and environmental costs there will be no alteration in the way we buy and consume ‘fast fashion’ products.

Q&A at the screening

The audience stood there for more then one hour and a half, silence, concentrated, at the end of the screening many of them asked questions, clever and uncomfortable questions and shared interesting thoughts. I loved sharing this experience with them and talking to them about my personal experiences in many of the countries shown in the documentary.

I am proud that now the concepts of ethical and honest fashion are no more unknown words for the boys and girls of Sanpatrignano.
I felt a beautiful energy of new awareness, my goal was accomplished! It is only about education!

Tags: ethical fashion, honest fashion, human rights, sustainability, textile