Cobalt is an essential component of lithium-ion batteries, which power countless devices Americans use daily, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and public transportation systems. However, much of this cobalt is mined under exploitative conditions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), often by children working in hazardous environments. This research investigates how contemporary American consumerism influences the educational opportunities of child miners in the DRC. Using case study research and content analysis, it examines both the qualitative and quantitative effects of cobalt mining on child miners’ education and quality of life. It also analyzes U.S. media and marketing to uncover recurring themes related to the promotion of lithium-ion devices and their disconnection from the cobalt crisis. Data is drawn from policy reports, corporate documents, advertisements, and expert interviews, then coded to identify patterns linking U.S. consumption to its impact on Congolese communities. This research highlights the human cost of technological convenience and advocates for increased corporate accountability, fair trade practices, and ethical solutions. By fostering awareness, it empowers consumers to demand change, ensuring progress does not come at the expense of vulnerable populations.