Protest in Los Angeles Demands Justice for Sri Lankan Garment Worker Pushpalatha

Labour rights activists raise concerns over the death of a Brandix worker during a protest linked to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

LOS ANGELES, October 21, 2026 — Labour rights activists staged a protest outside Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California, on October 18, demanding justice for a Sri Lankan garment worker whose death has raised concerns over working conditions in the global apparel industry.

The demonstration highlighted the death of Paramasivam Pushpalatha, a Sri Lankan garment worker employed at a Brandix factory reportedly linked to the supply chain of international lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret.

The protest was supported by labour rights organisations, including Global Labor Justice and the Asia Floor Wage Alliance, which have raised concerns over the circumstances surrounding Pushpalatha’s death and the treatment of garment workers in Sri Lanka.

Allegations Over Medical Leave and Working Conditions

According to labour rights advocates, Pushpalatha became seriously ill while working at the factory on October 10, 2025.

The organisations allege that she requested permission to leave work to seek medical attention but was required to remain until completing her assigned production duties.

She was reportedly hospitalised later and died within hours.

Labour advocates claim that the circumstances surrounding her death raise serious questions about workplace safety, access to medical care and the treatment of employees in Sri Lanka’s garment manufacturing sector.

The allegations have not been independently established, and the findings of any official investigation remain important in determining the circumstances of her death.

Allegations of Intimidation

Labour rights groups have also alleged that family members, workers and trade union representatives who sought accountability following Pushpalatha’s death faced intimidation, harassment and retaliation.

These allegations require independent verification, including responses from the companies and authorities concerned.

Protest Outside Sony Pictures Studios

The demonstration took place outside Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, Los Angeles, amid attention surrounding the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

Protesters carried placards calling for safer workplaces, protection for women workers and accountability for garment worker deaths.

Some signs read “Safe Factories, Safe Runways” and “Women Workers Protect Women Workers,” while others urged the reporting of workplace harassment and violence.

Photographs from the demonstration also showed participants holding portraits of Pushpalatha and demanding justice in her name.

Calls for Accountability and Worker Protection

The campaigners are demanding accountability for Pushpalatha’s death, an end to alleged intimidation of workers and their representatives, and stronger protections for women employed in garment factories.

They have also called attention to the responsibilities of international fashion brands in ensuring that workers throughout their supply chains have access to safe working conditions and essential medical care.

The case has renewed concerns about labour rights, workplace health and safety, and corporate accountability within Sri Lanka’s export-oriented garment industry.

The responses of Brandix and Victoria’s Secret, together with any independent investigation findings, will be important in establishing the facts surrounding the allegations.

The Life Traveler | International News