On this edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, Max Krochmal, Professor of History and Director of Justice Studies at the University of New Orleans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss labor organizing in the South. He explored the intersection of civil rights and labor movements, the impact of a 1948 police shooting on union activism and a traveling exhibition on New Orleans' black labor history.
Krochmal highlighted the often-overlooked connection between civil rights struggles and labor movements, particularly in the South. His book "Blue Texas" examines how black, Mexican American and white workers built coalitions to fight for both civil rights and economic justice from the 1930s through the 1960s. These alliances challenged the political status quo and opened up the Democratic Party to liberal and civil rights advocates, especially in urban areas.
The 1948 police shooting of Royal Brooks, a black union member in New Orleans, served as a catalyst for labor organizing and civil rights activism. Brooks' union membership and the city's dynamic labor movement led to unprecedented pressure on local authorities, resulting in the indictment of the police officer. Although the officer was ultimately acquitted, the case marked a significant departure from typical responses to racial violence in the Jim Crow South.
Krochmal also discussed the "Don't Stand Alone" traveling exhibition, which showcases 14 episodes of New Orleans' black labor history since the Civil War. The exhibit, developed in collaboration with Local Unions and community organizations, highlights lesser-known stories of worker organizing, including domestic workers, sex workers and teachers. It has been well-received at various venues and continues to spark important conversations about labor history and workers' rights.
To hear more about labor history in the Deep South and current organizing efforts, listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast.