Pushing Limits

“Bottom Dollars.” How 250K Disabled People Work for $2. an Hour

Disabled Worker in mainstream job, New Zealand, photo courtesy of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Flicker

The U.S. Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 created the right to a minimum wage, with one huge exception — people with disabilities.

We interview producer-director Jordan Melograna and play clips from “Bottom Dollars,” his documentary on sheltered workshops and the sub-minimum wage.  How is it that nearly 250,000 people are currently and legally paid, on average, less than $2 an hour?

The documentary exposes the exploitation of people with disabilities through personal stories and expert interviews. It also presents clear job alternatives, showing how people with disabilities can earn a competitive wage and work within the community.

With a commentary on the 12,000 wounded Palestinian protestors by Shelley Berman.

Josh Elwood, Mark Romoser and Adrienne Lauby host this extended fund drive program.

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