Samuel Gompers and other political activists and labor leaders addressed Shirtwaist workers at Cooper Union November 22, 1909. Gompers noted the terrible working conditions, long hours and poor wages. He urged workers to consider the impact of a strike in light of the loss of pay when they were already financially fragile. Many wondered if women were up to the hardships a strike entails including police brutality against those on the picket lines.
Photographer: Brown Brothers, 22-Nov-09
Kheel Center image identifier: 5780pb32f27j
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