God...


...grant me the serenity to accept
the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
-Reinhold Niebuhr




Monday, February 11, 2008

Wednesday-at-11... Horse Racing

Last week I attended possibly my first Wednesday-at-11 since my freshman year. Dr. Opacich presented on a topic that never crossed my mind before. What is life like for the employees at race tracks? What goes on behind the scenes?



Backstretch workers provide basic horse care and live on or near the facilities. Most are Mexicans who are undocumented or underdocumented. They are uninsured and ineligible for most programs. They have no kitchens, only microwaves due to the dangers. Their children's activities are restricted for their own safety. They move around to different tracks as the races move from place to place. Their health is compromised by the living conditions and restricted access to services. What poor quality of life--in the background of a wealthy industry. How many other businesses survive and thrive on the ill treatment of the dozens of workers who make it all possible?

No comments: