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State Representative Phyllis Kahn

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For more information contact: Ted Modrich 651-296-5809

Posted: 2011-03-23 00:00:00
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CENTENNIAL OF TRIANGLE SHIRTWAIST FACTORY FIRE REMINDER OF IMPORTANCE OF UNIONS

Nearly 100 years after tragic Triangle shirtwaist factory fire, unions still essential

ST. PAUL — This week marks the centennial anniversary of the Triangle shirtwaist factory fire that killed 146 people, all but 23 of them young women. The women in these factories typically worked six or seven days a week in overcrowded facilities for a weekly wage of $5. The years preceding the fire saw dozens of labor strikes and by 1910, most factories had agreed to recognize the Women’s Trade Union League as representation for the workers.

The unions negotiated contracts that enforced safety standards, including fire drills and general fire safety. The Triangle Waist Company, well-known for its anti-union views, refused to recognize the union. As workers tried to escape the fire on March 25, 1911, doors were locked and the ones who couldn’t crowd into the elevator were forced to hang out of windows, climb on ledges, run down fire escapes only to find them blocked, and for some, eventually leap to their deaths rather than be consumed by the fire.

Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL – Minneapolis) says the centennial commemoration of the fire should act as a reminder of the benefits and necessity of unions.

“Unions helped create the middle class and fought for the safe working conditions that many of us take for granted every day," Rep. Kahn said. “They give a collective voice to groups who otherwise might not have one.”

Minnesota Republicans have sought to effectively eliminate collective bargaining rights for teachers and other public employees while slashing wages and benefits.

“It’s shameful that Republicans would seek to attack unions and public employees,” Rep. Kahn continued. “Even 100 years after the Triangle shirtwaist factory fire, we still see unsafe working conditions, women making less than men for the same work, and the largest ever income gap between the wealthy and working class. Anyone who thinks unions aren’t necessary or are somehow the enemy, simply isn’t in touch with reality.”

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