1912 Strikers' Monument 2012

1912 Strikers' Monument 2012. . , This hand sculptured bronze relief, mounted into this 30,000 pound basalt boulder, commemorates the Great Lawrence Textile Strike of January 12, 1912. This globally known strike became a pivotal point in U.S. Labor history. It was here, on this site, the North Common Historical District, where 20,000 strikers rallied to challenge the cut in their pay when the State cut the work week from 56 to 54 hrs. for women and children. , The “Industrial Workers of the World” organized 17 ethnic groups in the city into one coherent force. A lengthy strike of eight weeks ensured, taking the lives of three workers and injuring and jailing hundreds of others. After weeks of confrontations with the state militia and local authorities, on March 14th the strikers agreed to end the strike. These terms, which affected 35,000 Lawrence textile workers, were verbally ratified on this Common, thus changing American history. , On Labor Day 2012, thousands gathered to dedicate this monument and to raise the American Flag on the “Centennial Flag Pole” in the same spirit of strength and solidarity that united the workers in 1912, even singing the labor songs of their forefathers. , The rear plaque depicts “Industria” from our city seal, our city flag, and words that express the vision that inspired this monument. , Fortitudo In Uniate , Strength in Unity.