This story was produced in partnership with the Pulitzer Center. It is part one of a four-part series.

In today’s world, it is easy to become consumed with our daily lives and forget about the struggles of others. We often take for granted the simple luxuries that others do not have access to. Jose Gonzalez* is one such person whose story will make us question our own lives and realize the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

At 31 years old, Jose is a father to three young children, and like any other parent, his main priority is to provide for his family. For years, he worked in the oil fields, enduring harsh conditions and toxic chemicals without any protection. When questioned about the risk involved, Jose simply shrugged and said, “One leak, and no one will hear from you again.”

This statement may seem nonchalant, but for Jose, it was a harsh reality. He knew that the chemicals he worked with on a daily basis could have severe effects on his health, but he had no choice. With limited job opportunities in his small town, working in the oil field was the only way he could support his family.

As we hear about Jose’s story, many questions arise – why was he not provided with the necessary protective equipment? Why did he continue to work under such risky conditions? The answers to these questions are not simple. The truth is that many people like Jose are forced to make these tough choices every day.

In most developing countries, health and safety regulations are not as strict, and corporations often prioritize profits over the well-being of their workers. Jose is just one of the many workers who have fallen victim to this harsh reality.

But amidst all the struggle and adversity, Jose has not lost hope. He continues to work hard and provide for his family, despite the risks involved. His resilience and determination are truly inspiring.

However, Jose’s story is not just about the harsh working conditions or the struggles of a single individual. It is a reflection of a larger issue – the lack of awareness and action regarding the safety and well-being of workers in developing countries.

This is where the Pulitzer Center steps in. Through their partnership with journalists like us, they aim to shed light on such pressing issues and spark conversations that can lead to real change. By reading and sharing this story, we can bring attention to the plight of workers like Jose and urge organizations to take responsibility for the well-being of their employees.

Jose’s story is just the first of a four-part series, and we must continue to follow and support his journey. He is not just a worker in the oil fields; he is a father, a husband, and a human being with hopes and dreams. Despite the challenges he faces, he remains hopeful for a better future for himself and his family.

So, let us take a moment to appreciate Jose’s determination and bravery, and let his story serve as a reminder to always be grateful for the privileges we have in our lives. Let us also be inspired to take action and make a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.

We thank the Pulitzer Center for giving us the opportunity to bring Jose’s story to the world, and we hope that this is just the beginning of a larger movement to bring about change and create a safer and more equitable world for all workers.

*Name has been changed to protect the individual’s identity.