In a Mississippi of the early 1960s, racism and discrimination are part of everyday life, both in personal and work environments. A young aspiring writer, Skeeter, returns home after college with the intention of doing something meaningful. Upon witnessing the situation of the African American maids working for the white families in her town, she decides to undertake a project that empowers them: to collect their stories about the work and oppression they face in a hostile environment.
Skeeter begins to forge a friendship with Aibileen, a strong and wise woman who has raised several white children and has suffered unimaginable personal losses. With her help, they manage to attract other brave women willing to share their experiences, including Minny, a clever and sharp-tongued cook who is not afraid to challenge the established norms.
As the project progresses, several families begin to suspect what is happening, leading to tensions and dangers for both the authors and the women who dare to speak out. Amid the struggle for justice and the quest for acceptance, the strength, courage, and unbreakable friendship of a group of women is revealed—women who, despite their circumstances, dare to dream of a better future. The story not only addresses systemic racism, but also highlights the importance of empathy and understanding between different communities.