February 11th marks the day in 1937 that ended the 44-day sit down in Flint, which brought union recognition from GM. It's time again to commemorate the militancy of the sit-down strikers that put the UAW on the map. Traditionally, UAW workers on this day wear white shirts, symbolizing that we will not be looked down upon or patronized by management. Since white shirts on union workers are not as unusual in a legal services shop as on a factory floor, we usually dress 'em up a bit with union badges or stickers. It's also traditional to lunch on bean dishes, apples, and bread, because that's what the sit-downers largely subsisted on.

Until this year's article in Solidarity magazine (Jan-Feb issue, p.9), I was not aware that the all-important Women's Emergency Brigade had gone about their business in red capes, armbands and berets, in case that gives folks additional ideas. This year being the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, it's not a bad time to emphasize the key roles that sisters play in every successful struggle. The occasion also celebrates earlier sit-downs in South Bend and Detroit. Workers in those plants weathered slander campaigns, tear gas, lack of heat in the dead of winter, and the threat of military intervention in order to win.

And now this chapter in our union's history is the subject of a concept trailer featuring George Clooney, Christopher Walken, Russell Crowe and Charlize Theron. Great Flint Sit Down Strike. Thanks to NOLSW Exec. Board member Jeff Segal for forwarding this clip-here's hoping the movie gets made!


Submitted by Gibb Surette, President, Legal Services Staff Association, New York City