“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” — Dr. Seuss.
Inspired by Dr. Seuss’s wisdom, on October 18th and 19th, I stepped away from my books to attend the Peggy Browning Fund Workers’ Rights Conference in Baltimore. The experience was incredibly impactful, deepening my passion for workplace justice and expanding my knowledge of labor law. The conference brought together passionate professionals, advocates, and legal experts to tackle the most pressing issues surrounding workers' rights. It was inspiring to hear from leaders in the field and participate in thought-provoking discussions about how we can work together to ensure fair treatment, strong workplace protections, and respect for labor rights.
One of the most memorable moments for me was learning about the success stories of the workers at the bus manufacturer Blue Bird, who overcame significant challenges to successfully organize a labor union in the Deep South. I was shocked to hear about the harsh conditions they faced prior to organizing, such as having to work five years for just two vacation days and ten years for a mere five. Could you only imagine?
It was my first time learning about the Memphis 7, a courageous group of workers who fought to establish a union in the face of immense resistance. These workers began organizing to demand better working conditions, fair wages, and the right to unionize. Their efforts sparked a series of protests, including sit-ins in the lobby of their workplace (Starbucks), which were part of their strategy to gain attention and press for change. In response, the company closed the lobby and transformed it into a drive-thru, a clear attempt to shut down their peaceful demonstrations.
Things escalated when the media arrived after hours to cover the protest, and the workers, known as the Memphis 7, were allegedly terminated for violating company policies. Their dismissal was a direct retaliation for their involvement in the union effort, and the situation became a flashpoint in the larger civil rights struggle. The Memphis 7's bravery and determination remain an iconic example of workers standing up for justice and equality.
Beyond awareness to recent events, the conference offered a series of workshops that allowed me to brush up on my knowledge of basic labor laws and learn more about the statistics and experiences of people of color in the labor field. I was particularly moved by the stories of resilience and unity among those working toward a fairer, more just future in the workforce.
The most valuable part of the conference was undoubtedly the networking. Outside of the opportunity to mingle with three colleagues from CSU (Ellenia Matthews, Philipp Corfman, and David Zabilka), I was able to connect with law students from across the country, each with their own unique interests in the field of labor law. Building these relationships is incredibly important, as it not only broadens my understanding of the diverse perspectives within labor law, but also fosters connections that may lead to future collaborations or opportunities.
As a law student, this event reinforced my passion for social justice and advocacy. The chance to connect with fellow CSU scholars and like-minded individuals was invaluable, and I left with a renewed sense of purpose. I now have a deeper understanding of the legal challenges within labor law, and the knowledge I gained will continue to shape my path as a legal advocate committed to making a difference. Thank you the National Lawyers Guild CSU Chapter for the opportunity to attend this conference.
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