WWII Detroit: America's 'Arsenal of Democracy'

Prior to the United States' entrance into World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt challenged the nation to become the world's "arsenal of democracy," to arm itself and so protect other democratic nations against the onslaught of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. One city in particular picked up that thrown gauntlet: Detroit. Detroiters worked round the clock in defense plants to produce 30 percent of U.S. war machinery, equipment, and munitions. Jobs were plentiful. In fact, there were more jobs than workers to fill them. WWII Detroit Answered FDR's call for America's 'Arsenal of Democracy'

Organizing Ford Motor Company: Black Detroit Autoworkers, Communism, Cadillac Square

For the last 100ish years, the word "communism" has held negative connotations. Even now, saying you're a Communist will quiet the room fast. In 1930s Detroit, being a Communist wasn't necessarily considered a bad thing, though -- at least not for 60,000 black American autoworkers. Here's the story of how black autoworkers helped turn the union tide at Ford Motor Company. Organizing Ford Motor Company

'Battle of Running Bulls' Flint Sit-Down Strike Anniversary

Jan. 11 marked the 76th anniversary of the Michigan labor struggle known as the "Battle of Running Bulls." On February 1, we remember the turning point of the strike which led to GM being forced to sign a contract on Feb 11. Violence erupted at General Motors Fisher Auto Body plant No. 2, during the Flint sit-down strike, reports the Flint Journal. The event would come to be called the "Gettysburg" of the CIO (Congress of Industrial Organizations) and was pivotal in organizing auto workers, says Solidarity. Here are details about that historic event. Michigan Sit-Down Strike Marks 75th Anniversary

Best Labor Unions History Movies to Watch for Labor Day

 Labor Day, the first Monday in September, was designated to celebrate the achievements of organized labor unions in protecting workers' rights.Labor Day is about more than just BBQs and the last summer holiday. Here are labor union movies to watch for Labor Day. When labor wins a victory it helps everyone.

We have organized labor unions to thank for better healthcare benefits, unemployment benefits, safer working conditions, womens' right, racial unity, overtime pay, paid holidays and sick days, child labor laws and many other benefits that workers now take for granted. Watch these movies to understand more about how labors unions have impacted our lives. Since writing this I've since watched and recommend "Harlan County War" also. Read on  Best Labor Unions History Movies to Watch for Labor Day