This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, featured Eileen Boris, Hull Professor of Feminist Studies at UC Santa Barbara and President-elect of the Labor and Working Class History Association, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the formation of LAWCHA, the importance of labor history and current challenges to historical accuracy.
Boris gave an overview of the LAWCHA’s founding. She said it was created in 1996 during a period of union reform and reconnection between intellectuals and the labor movement. Inspired by John Sweeney's election as AFL-CIO president, the organization brought together academics, union members and independent scholars to promote labor history as a vital part of American history. LAWCHA quickly grew, establishing regional groups, a scholarly journal and a commitment to inclusivity in historical narratives.
Boris emphasized the critical role of understanding labor history in navigating current challenges. She highlighted ongoing attempts by the Trump administration and others to sanitize or erase aspects of history that do not align with their ideological views. These efforts, she noted, include removing displays about marginalized groups from national parks, renaming military bases and interfering with Smithsonian exhibits. Boris stressed that such actions aim to control the narrative and suppress critical examination of America's complex past.
To counter these threats, LAWCHA is partnering with other historical organizations to preserve public history and record the experiences of federal workers affected by recent policies. She explained they are also preparing alternative narratives for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, emphasizing the role of working people in shaping American history. Boris underscored the importance of presenting a complete historical record that includes the struggles and contributions of all Americans, not just a sanitized version focused on "great white men."
Listen to the full episode for more insights on the importance of labor history and current efforts to protect historical accuracy.