I dig the idea of mega-propaganda. Kinda has a [url=http://beautifulrailwaybridgeofthesilverytay.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/they-live-billboard.jpg]They Live[/url] feel to it. Definitely cool.

As for worker exploitation, what about "company stores" like the mines and logging companies used to use in the early 1900s? Basically the mining company would provide housing for the workers that they and their families were required to live in, then charged them exorbitant rates for the rent. This effectively ate the miner's paycheck every month, so he couldn't afford to feed his family. The company then provided a commissary (like a super-walmart with everything from groceries to clothing and furniture), but all of the food provided was bought with credit rather than money. 

Since the workers couldn't pay off their commissary tab with the company, they were essentially slaves, unable to leave and seek employment elsewhere because of the massive debt that would crush them financially if they tried. 

Just a thought.