Purdue commends students' concern

11 Feb '08

3 min read

Purdue has decided to continue monitoring a proposed business plan that would give an outside group authority to decide who can manufacture university-licensed clothing in other countries.

A Purdue statement released Sunday (Feb. 10) stated: "The university commends members of the Purdue Organization for Labor Equality for their concern for human rights and their passion in the advocacy of the Designated Suppliers Program ...

While the goals of the Designated Supplier Program are consistent with Purdue's goals for code enforcement, we join many other universities in recognizing the substantial economic, legal and logistical issues that presently stand in the way of successful implementation of this program.

These concerns were underscored recently when the U.S. Department of Justice, after several months of consideration, decided not to issue an antitrust clearance on the DSP."

Joseph L. Bennett, vice president for university relations, said Purdue officials had hoped to meet with the students before the statement was released.

Earlier Sunday, however, media received a news release that misrepresented the university's position, he said.

"In order to avoid any misunderstanding and clarify the situation, we feel it is best to release the statement now," Bennett said.

"This group of Purdue students expresses a deep concern about human rights, especially working conditions for people employed in the apparel industry. They have raised awareness about an important issue, and the university respects their strong commitment.

"Purdue will not adopt the Designated Suppliers Program at this time, but the university will continue to monitor progress of the program.

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