Remembering the Triangle Factory Fire, 100 years later

Shirtwaist Strike & Other Strikes

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Clara Lemlich, a skilled draper and member of International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union Local 25, encouraged interested shirtwaist makers to meet secretly with the union and the Women's Trade Union League to discuss workers' needs and the union's goals. Despite the risks, many went on strike in September, 1909. In an attempt to satisfy some workers, Triangle owners Max Blanck and Isaac Harris formed the "Triangle Employees Benevolent Association" a company union, and installed relatives as officers. They also announced that any employee who supported 'another union' would be fired.

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