Labor Day is fast approaching, but the true meaning of the holiday often gets lost amidst the excitement of barbecues and sales. Originally intended to celebrate America’s workers, Labor Day has strayed from its roots in recent years. In the midst of this shift, journalist Michael Garcia of KETK in Tyler, Texas, has taken it upon himself to delve into the rich history of labor activism in East Texas.
Uncovering Labor Activism in East Texas
Garcia’s investigation into labor activism history in East Texas was sparked by a realization he had on a previous Labor Day. He noticed that many people had forgotten the original purpose of the holiday, prompting him to explore the region’s past labor disputes. While East Texas may not be synonymous with union activity, Garcia discovered a history of labor struggles that have shaped the area.
“People have always worked, and back in the day, unions were much more prevalent,” Garcia explains. “There were numerous fights happening across the country, and East Texas was no exception. In the 1800s, there were violent uprisings that resulted in tragic deaths. Despite the decline in union activity over the years, there are still significant unions in our area that have engaged in strikes as recently as a couple of years ago.”
One such strike occurred at the Prysmian Group plant in Scottsville in 2021. Workers went on strike to demand fair wages, benefits, and compensation for the extra work they had undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prysmian Group, a cable, energy, and telecom manufacturing company, became a focal point of labor activism in the region.
Examining Historical Labor Disputes
Garcia’s investigation also delved into significant strikes and union actions in East Texas’ history, shedding light on the struggles faced by workers in the past. One notable example was the Sick Chicken Strike in the 1950s, which took place in Shelby County, a hub for the poultry industry.
“The poultry industry in Shelby County faced challenges due to a lack of regulation when it was first industrialized,” Garcia explains. “Workers endured grueling conditions in unsanitary environments, leading to strikes at poultry plants in Center. The Amalgamated Meat Cutters union supported these strikes, advocating for better working conditions.”
The strikes in the poultry industry lasted for years, with one plant ultimately closing down due to a national boycott organized by the union. This tactic proved to be effective in bringing attention to the workers’ plight and pressuring employers to address their demands.
Garcia’s research also uncovered the Southwest Railroad strike organized by the Knights of Labor in Marshall. This strike was significant not only for its impact on labor relations but also for the Knights of Labor’s role as one of the first desegregated unions. The progress made in terms of inclusivity within unions highlights the evolution of labor activism over time.
Connecting Past and Present
Through his reporting, Garcia drew parallels between historical labor actions and contemporary movements, emphasizing the enduring relevance of labor activism. He highlighted individuals like Chris Hodge, a union president at Prysmian Group, who exemplify the grassroots nature of labor activism.
“These individuals, like Chris Hodge, are not necessarily politically motivated,” Garcia observes. “They are driven by a desire to improve their workplaces and communities by actively engaging with unions. Their commitment to advocating for workers’ rights underscores the importance of collective action in addressing labor issues.”
Garcia’s investigation into labor activism in East Texas serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by workers in the past and the ongoing fight for fair treatment and representation in the workplace. By uncovering the stories of those who have stood up for their rights, he highlights the enduring legacy of labor activism in the region.
If you found this reporting valuable and informative, please consider supporting it by making a donation to help sustain quality journalism in Texas. Your contribution enables us to continue providing in-depth coverage of important issues like labor activism in East Texas. Thank you for supporting independent journalism.
