SOCIAL JUSTICE BLOG

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Achieving Justice for Forced Labor Victims in Saipan
Forced Labor, Impact Litigation Teddy Basham-Witherington Forced Labor, Impact Litigation Teddy Basham-Witherington

Achieving Justice for Forced Labor Victims in Saipan

When I first met the plaintiffs, they were terrified of their employers, afraid to complain, and felt utterly disenfranchised. After learning of their legal rights, they protested in the streets of Saipan for their wages and told federal authorities that they would not return to China until they were paid. The mere act of bringing this forced labor case against very powerful, well-connected defendants is itself an act of incredible courage. And the plaintiffs’ willingness to persist with the litigation after returning to China—where they were harassed and threatened to drop or settle their claims—is further testament to their bravery. 

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