UAW members celebrate “White Shirt Day” on February 11th to honor the more than 136,000 GM workers from multiple factories who participated in the Flint Sit-Down Strike. In 1936 and 1937, employees worked in extremely dangerous conditions with very low wages. Workers came together for a historic sit-in occupying the Fisher Body factories and other plants to demand a seat at the bargaining table with General Motors. On February 11, 1937, the sit-in came to a close after 44 days and GM agreed to recognize the United Autoworkers Union as the official bargaining representatives to all hourly GM employees. The UAW was able to secure pay increases and lunch breaks for all members! Members wore white shirts every year on February 11th to show “blue collar” workers deserve the same respect as “white collar” workers. The meaning behind wearing white shirts on that day is to celebrate all the struggles and accomplishments of workers who came before us and fought for dignity and respect in the workplace. The Flint Sit-Down Strike is recognized as a major catalyst for labor organizations across the country.
Kathy Barr, Education Committee Chairperson
Kalisha Palm, Education Committee Co-Chairperson
