WHEREAS:

The story of the labor movement is, in truth, the story of the American people — men and women, young and old, people of different races, religions, and backgrounds — and their continuing struggle for a more just and decent society; and

WHEREAS:

The labor movement has been pivotal in gaining such legislation as child labor laws, the 40-hour work week, health and safety regulations, and civil rights laws, all of which have benefited working people; and

WHEREAS:

Many labor leaders and rank-and-filers were killed in the struggles for worker rights; and

WHEREAS:

The history of the labor movement and its triumphs is systematically ignored, distorted, and misrepresented in our schools — from elementary through college.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That the International Union actively participate in and support efforts, legislative and otherwise, to include labor history as part of school curricula in this country; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That the Education Department of the International Union develop teaching materials detailing this proud history and that such materials be appropriate for dissemination to students in grades K-12; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That such materials be developed — paying particular attention to balancing the roles of women and men in the labor movement.

SUBMITTED BY:

Herbert A. Ollivierre, President
Natalie Baker, Recording Secretary
AFSCME Council 93
Boston, Massachusetts

Sue King, President
Beverly Hermanson, Secretary
Local 443, Council 28
Olympia, Washington

Women's Committees of Councils 24, 40 and 48

Irene Herron-Steeger, Chairperson
Council 24, Madison, Wisconsin

Marcella McCallum, Chairperson
Council 40, Madison, Wisconsin

Paula Dorsey, Chairperson
Council 48, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Joe Kreuser, International Vice President
President, Council 40
Madison, Wisconsin