Honoring Black Labor History

February is Black History Month, and today let's dive into the powerful contributions of Black workers to the labor movement!

Did you know that the labor movement and the fight for civil rights are deeply intertwined? Black workers have been at the forefront, advocating for fair wages, better working conditions, and equal opportunities.

From the early days, they faced discrimination and exclusion from many unions. But guess what? They didn't back down! They formed their own organizations and fought for their rights. A. Philip Randolph, for example, founded the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, which not only improved conditions for its members but also became a strong voice in the civil rights movement.

And let's not forget about the incredible contributions of Black women in the labor movement! Leaders like Ella Baker and Fannie Lou Hamer fought for both workers' rights and the intersectionality of race and gender. They championed inclusion and equity for Black women in the workplace and beyond.

The civil rights movement of the 1960s also had a HUGE impact on labor struggles, reshaping policies and practices

or greater representation and opportunities for Black workers. As we honor these contributions this month, let's remember that the labor movement is an ongoing struggle for equality and justice. By understanding this legacy, we can appreciate how race, labor, and civil rights are interconnected and work together for a brighter, more equitable future for ALL workers.”