Welcome to Extreme Investor Network, where we bring you unique perspectives on pressing economic issues. Today, we are shedding light on the harsh reality of modern-day slavery in the United States – the exploitation of prisoners for cheap labor.
Did you know that two-thirds of US prisoners, totaling 800,000 men and women, are employed in federal and state prisons? What’s even more alarming is that a significant portion of these prisoners work for private companies, generating an estimated $11 billion annually for the US government while receiving little to no compensation.
Non-industry workers in prisons can earn as little as 13 to 52 cents per hour, with some states like Alabama, Arkansas, and Texas not even required to pay these workers for their labor. The reliance on inmate labor has become so ingrained in some states that they actively include it in their budgets to maintain facilities, roads, and other essential services.
Private companies such as McDonald’s, Walmart, IBM, and Microsoft are among the hundreds that benefit from this system by directly contracting prisoners for labor. These companies bypass regulations and workers’ rights, leaving prisoners vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has reported that over 75% of prisoner-workers are unable to take time off, risking solitary confinement and isolation from their families. This exploitation not only perpetuates the cycle of incarceration but also contributes to the profit-driven nature of the prison industry.
Despite the disproportionate impact on African American and Hispanic individuals, there is a concerning lack of outcry and demand for reparations from affected communities. The private sector’s involvement in the prison industry not only perpetuates modern-day slavery but also hinders job opportunities for the general population.
The US prison complex, with its reliance on cheap inmate labor and profit-driven motives, has drawn comparisons to Nazi Germany’s forced labor practices. The system’s inherent flaws prioritize financial gain over human rights, perpetuating a cycle of incarceration and exploitation.
At Extreme Investor Network, we aim to bring attention to these critical economic issues and provide insightful analysis to empower our readers. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking content on our platform. Join us in our mission to educate and advocate for a more just and equitable economic system.