After watching the newly released documentary, “Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price,” I was greatly saddened and appalled. Wal-Mart and dozens of other American giant corporations have a deep-rooted history of exploiting their employees. This is readily apparent by the sheer magnitude of the 4,851 lawsuits filed against Wal-Mart alone in 2000. Keep in mind that the formation of a corporation is granted, regulated and continued only at the behest of the public it is serving.
During the past half-century, the largest corporations have been given increasingly disproportionate tax incentives and political consideration by our elected officials, with virtually no disclosure to the public they serve. Our actions and decisions locally are affecting people, animals and the environment globally. Are “We the People” really benefiting by exploiting communities far away, while adding to the wealth of individuals that “own”these corporations?
As the largest corporation in the world, Wal-Mart sets the example for other corporations to follow. Our rules and regulations governing corporate charters need to be reviewed and enforced. We Americans are already feeling the effects of corporate servitude with longer hours, lower wages, fewer benefits and lack of job security. Just like anything else, we teach corporations how to treat us. Soon, all workers’ rights, unions, medical benefits, wages and more will be gone or secondary. Profit doesn’t have to happen this way. When you need to shop, slam the door on that smiley face, drive by Wal-Mart and don’t stop!
Sheri A. Hilton
Everett
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