The story begins with a quick description of the authors former surroundings, and the type of industries which, until the present day, had been prevalent in that area. The location is the old industrial area of Toronto which was formerly dominated by garment factories, yet today resembles a ghost – town with its boarded up, dormant buildings.
Worldwide globalization has led many such enterprises to be forgotten in the wake of modernization and increased technologies. Many products available during its earlier days can still be purchased, yet it is the candy and movie stores which dominate the areas business. Remnants of an earlier era can still be seen in the various statues and monuments erected around Spadina Ave., the main street of the city known for its booming garment industry, which include women hunched over sewing machines and figures perched atop lampposts. An eleven foot thimble was also erected which directly symbolizes the transformation from the garment to sweatshop workers struggle. Old factory buildings are being turned into expensive lofts and condos complete with 24 hour concierge, underground parking, and sky lit gymnasiums. Few landlords remain, who have made their fortunes off the garment industry, that haven’t already sold their buildings in the name of condominium development, and many are caught between the harsh realities of economic globalization and an earlier period of time. Continue reading International Development Essay