Peter Mui founded Fixit Clinic, a volunteer-run repair group that helps people fix broken household items at events around the country. This rise in interest in repair work is attributed to a growing awareness of the environmental impact of e-waste and the passage of right-to-repair laws in states like California, Oregon, and New York. These laws protect consumers’ ability to repair their products instead of being limited to manufacturer repair services.
The right-to-repair movement started with challenges to copyright laws in 2012 and has gained public attention through battles against companies like Taylor Company and John Deere over restrictive repair policies. The movement has faced lobbying by large industrial conglomerates, but some manufacturers are beginning to work with repair advocates in response to consumer demand. Repair Cafe is another repair network with thousands of communities worldwide, promoting local resiliency and mutual help through repair events.
The Fixit Clinics and Repair Cafe events provide a space for community members to share their skills and knowledge while fixing household items for others without charge. Volunteers at these events work together to repair treasured belongings and clothes, fostering conversations and connections among attendees. This environment of mutual help and skill-sharing is valued by participants, creating a sense of community and empowerment. Through these initiatives and legislation, the right-to-repair movement continues to expand, advocating for consumer rights and promoting sustainability through repair work.
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