In this episode, we do a deep dive into the story of Clara Lemlich, a Jewish immigrant and labor organizer who, in 1909, sparked an uprising of 20,000 workers that began a great wave of labor laws and protections for all workers in America. This is Part 1 of what has turned into a 3-part series. Part 2 will continue the story, detailing the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and the role this disaster played in catalyzing some profound changes to American Labor. In that episode we meet a woman who witnessed the fire, Frances Perkins, the first female cabinet secretary and architect of The New Deal. In Part 3, we learn all about Frances Perkins and her role in shaping many of the policies and protections that ushered in a "New Deal" for Americans.
Let us know what you think and if there are future topics you’d like us to discuss, Please also share with all the bitches in your life and help us get out in the world!
Connect with Us!
Patreon: patreon.com/TheBitchionary
Instagram @theb.chionary
Substack: https://thebitchionary.substack.com/
Apple Podcasts: The Bitchionary
Email: admin@thebitchionary.com for general inquiries.
Email Becca at becca@thebitchionary.com or Lily at lily@thebitchionary.com.
Sources
- "Triangle: The Fire That Changed America" by David Von Drehle
- Clara Lemlich, “The Inside of a Shirtwaist Factory,” Good Housekeeping 54 (March 1912), 367-369, https://reader.library.cornell.edu/docviewer/digital?id=hearth6417403_1340_004#page/67/mode/1up
- Article about Clara: https://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/shavelson-clara-lemlich
- Article about ILGWU: https://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/international-ladies-garment-workers-union
Share this post