”Tomato Girl Summer” My Ass

Impiraressa: A Multi-Threaded Podcast Hosted by Anna Battista

Narratives, much like seeds, possess a dynamic nature; they evolve, expand, and journey, in often unexpected directions. Episode 2 of Impiraressa starts with the fleeting "Tomato Girl Summer" trend, enveloped in Mediterranean vibes and characterized by an idealized depiction of carefree summer experiences. From there, it delves into personal recollections and dives deep into the distressing reality of migrant agricultural laborers in Italy, particularly within the tomato harvesting sector, where labor conditions starkly resemble modern-day slavery.

The exploration draws striking parallels between the agricultural industry and the fast fashion world, illuminating the exploitation of low-cost labor and the glaring disparity between professed ethical standards and the harsh truth.

Ultimately, the message is clear: trends may come and go, but human exploitation endures. While individually we may feel powerless, our collective efforts to scrutinize and question the systems, producers, and products perpetuating this exploitation can drive positive transformation. It is of paramount importance that we do not avert our gaze from the suffering of others, for the scars of trauma persist long after trends have faded into obscurity.

Music for this episode: "Johnny Sera (Sigla Prima Puntata)", written and performed by Franco Pisano, published by Kutmusic Italhouse Produzioni Musicali, recorded in 1966, released by Kutmusic, 2023; "Salute Paisà (Hello Neighbor)", written by Giuseppe Giacomantonio and Vincenzo Perugini, performed by Quartetto Silano, published by Kutmusic Italhouse Produzioni Musicali, recorded in 1961, released by Kutmusic, 2021; "La Passata (Wet Tomato Love Potion)" and "La Bollitura (Boiling Up Tomato Bliss)", performed by The Frog, published by Kutmusic Italhouse Produzioni Musicali, released by Irene Disques, 2023; "City_Demented" and "City_Extraterrestrial", written and performed by Aldo Lanzini Aviance, courtesy of the Artist.

Impiraressa is brought to you by Irenebrination and Kutmusic. Impiraressa is written and hosted by Anna Battista.