Sonagacchi, the oldest and largest of Calcutta's many red-light districts, is home to thousands of women who sell themselves there. Shoulder to shoulder the women stand, waiting in line... as far as the eye can see. Waiting to be chosen. Scanning this everyday spectacle is a steady stream of men. Up to 20,000 men come, everyday... as if shopping in a supermarket.
But now there is a new business on Sonagacchi. A business focused on FREEDOM, instead of slavery.
Kerry Hilton, co-founder of Freeset says, "The business we are in is actually freesom, and to obtain that, we manufacture export quality jute bags." Freeset is about transforming people, and an entire community. Financial profit is certainly not it's primary focus.
All the women at Freeset are paid the same, regardless of their skill level. In addition, Freeset has also established a pension scheme and provides health insurance. A low-cost day-care center is provided for the children while their moms are at work, allowing them to be removed from the perils of the sex district during the day.
In the beginning, very few of the women could write even their own names. Now, they can all sign their names, as well as read simple, practical words. Basic math skills help them in their daily lives. Literacy empowers them to participate more fully in the world around them as well as reducing their vulnerability.
Freeset uses an "upside down" business model. Kerry explains, "The way most people start a business is to pick the best people and pay them as little as possible. We pick the least educated and pay them the most we can."
"Freeset is a fair trade business offering employment to women trapped in Kolkata's sex trade. We make quality jute bags and organic tee-shirts, but our business is FREEDOM!
