:: rawblogXport ::

:: Sunday, February 08, 2004 ::

YOUNGSTOWN In early 1900s, blacks flocked By JOHN W. GOODWIN JR, The VINDICATOR
Reports say that even though blacks held the most dangerous and dirtiest jobs, they were paid the least. Blacks in the 1930s were paid between 37 cents and 40 cents per hour, while other workers were paid between 62 cents and 78 cents per hour.

Union improvements

Formation of the United Steel Workers of America union in the early 1940s is said to have improved working conditions for both black and white steelworkers. Of particular interest to the black steelworker was wording in the union constitution, such as 'regardless of race, creed, color or nationality.'

Racism still reared its head in the union and steel industry for years, reports say.

Gary contractors push jobs, training By Tim Zorn
Unions have helped workers, several contractors said, but they also have sometimes kept jobs from blacks.

“I’ve seen the injustices, and I’ve seen the great things that were done,” Charles Prewitt, a contractor and 33-year Carpenters Union member, said. “All unions have some making up to do.”

He suggested contractors work together to make suggestions to the council.

posted 5:56 PM :: reference link :: 0 comments ::

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