Power of images to change working conditions

For decades, risks to workers in a number of industries have been difficult to remedy. With legal protects and limited oversight where laws exist, workers have often been at the mercy of an industry that focused more on profits than protection of its workers. The plight of workers was often improved when public outcry forced the implementation of laws and protective measures. The mobilization of the public was very often the result of gripping photographs of deplorable working conditions, maimed workers or lost lives. Photojournalists have been the conscience of the uninformed public by reminding us through their images of the impact of our desire for cheap foods, goods and services.

Across the centuries the photographs of child mill workers and coal miners in the 1800's, or steel workers and farmworkers in the 1900's or construction workers and poultry workers today have reminded us that all negligence has a price. To be unaware does not abrogate responsibility and yet “out of sight out of mind.” Legion of photojournalists have reminded us and keep reminding us of the danger that is the day-to-day experience of many workers.

This session will review the role of photojournalism in the history of worker protection. We will provide reproductions of images that capture the attention of the public and forced improvements where they were desperately needed.