International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month have their roots in the labor movement dating back to March 8, 1857 when women textile workers in New York went on strike to protest against low wages and poor working conditions. In subsequent years, women have commemorated International Women’s day by demanding shorter work days, demonstrating for the right to vote, and protesting against child labor. The month has become a time to reflect on progress and a call to continue the work of creating positive changes.
1903: Mary Harris Jones, nicknamed “Mother” Jones, led a 125-mile march of child workers to bring the evils of child labor to the attention of the President and the national press.
1909: Women garment workers strike in NY for better wages and working conditions in the Uprising of the 20,000. Over 300 shops eventually sign union contracts.
In the early 1900's, young women shirtwaist makers – mostly Jewish immigrants, still in their teens --were a powerful force for change. They brought together women's rights activism and union power, and ignited sweeping changes to worker safety laws. >>>Read More
