University of Washington group will inspect Nike facilities

What began as a student protest movement has led to a first-of-its-kind contract between the University of Washington and Nike, Inc. And it could go even further.

An argument for female athletes, not models, in sports ads

Nike sells millions of dollars worth of college-branded gear and UW — like other colleges and universities — receives a cut of the proceeds for gear that features the school’s logo. Nike had refused to allow any watchdog groups to inspect the overseas factories that produce that gear.

Thanks to issues raised by the group United Students Against Sweatshops, the university’s latest contract stipulates inspections. If a facility fails to meet standards or institute a plan to change, Nike will withdraw its orders.

The move was called a “very significant victory” by a member of the UW negotiating team. In fact, the new contract sets a precedent that many other schools are expected to follow.

The Seattle Times reports the Fair Labor Association has inspected Nike’s factories. However, activists believe the association was ignoring violations.