Child Labor

by Itzel

There is a cycle that goes on in every human being at some point. The cycle is simple. People work in order to get money. They use the money to buy food. They need the food to live and they need to live to work. Without that cycle it would be difficult to survive . Today there are a variety of jobs all around the world. Each job is unique but the outcome is always the same , you get paid money for your work. Today the age by law that you can start working is eighteen years or older, but it wasn't always that way.

Not that long ago, kids ranging from four years old and older were used as workers. Parents were tricked into giving their kids to " school." The kids were taken to work in factories. Most kids didn't really have a real idea as to where they were going , they never expected they were off to work . their chances of ever returning were slim.

At the factory, the kids were put to do a variety of jobs. Some kids were put to collect grapes and other fruit from fields. This wasn't exactly easy or fun, on its worse the blazing sun would bring scorching heat to the kids below. The kids were at risk of heat stroke with the temperature that high , other risks include thorn scratches and bugs. Another job was milking animals . This was also a safety hazard for kids with no animal experience. The main job was working with machinery , the poor unfortunate souls that worked on the machinery risked their lives .

The sad and unfair consequences for these kids were terrible. The kids weren't fed or offered a drink that often. Those working in the fields suffered severe thirst. The fate of those caught stealing food or drinks was worse. Those working with the animals could end up with a serious injury if the animals decide to strike. For the kids who end up one arm or finger less are lucky to be alive .

Child labor had been around for many years. Child labor only brought life threatening situations for innocent kids. Thankfully child labor is gone today, because people fought for justice and changed the laws. Although adults' percentage of getting hurt on the job is no more or less than kids' again by law kids can't work until eighteen or older.

Despite this reality in America, child labor continues around the world. Kids are taken as virtual slaves in diamond mines, shoe factories and underground sex trafficking. They are victims of a system that turns a blind eye to justice. Kids are the future of this world, is there really a point in risking their futures and everyones' futures just for labor? Is it worth it for cheap shoes?

Photo Source
http://alchemistpoonam.wordpress.com/2007/11/