In Mississippi in 1963, Aibileen Clark, a maid, shares her story with a writer. Raised as a maid, she looks after the Leefolt family's daughter, Mae, giving her little attention. Skeeter Phelan, a recent college graduate, starts a project after experiencing job rejection. Aibileen's friend, Minny Jackson, works for the Holbrooks, serving Hilly, a socialite. Hilly dismisses her maid for Minny, known for her cooking skills. Aibileen and Minny bond over gossip while working. Through their experiences, they reveal the deep-seated racism in their community. The story unfolds against a backdrop of social change and personal struggles.