A Hidden Secret Liberians Knew Well

Firestone had a practice of forced labor that filtered to every community close to its plantations. Local chiefs were forced by the Liberian government to provide young men for plantation work. The Liberian Labor Rights Forum v. Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. lawsuit is one of the ways child laborers fought back against the company. As a Liberian, I heard and saw the effect of the displacement of communities. Child Rights International Network highlighted the case of young Daniel Flomo, who began working at Firestone at the age of 7. President Tubman of Liberia was the largest owner of rubber farms outside of Firestone, so no help from the government on that end. I think this interview reflects the hidden secret of Firestone that we Liberians know so well, just like we know of the Fernando Po forced labor under then Liberian President King. Thank you, Jon.