Latinas and Triangle Shirtwaist Fire

It has been gratifying to see commemorations of the 100th anniversary of the historic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire mention two Latina victims, Josie Del Castillo, 21, and Daisy Lopez Fitze, 26.

The 1911 fire in New York underscored the need for workplace health and safety laws. It also demonstrated the need for organized labor as a voice for the young female workers. At the time, the International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union (ILGWU) had organized thousands of garment workers, but that particular employer had not signed a collective bargaining agreement.

The tragic loss of life shocked the state and nation. In response, Frances Perkins helped pass a series of reforms under governor and then president Franklin Roosevelt, for whom she served as Secretary of Labor during the New Deal.

Today, Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis continues Frances Perkins’ mission.

Let us never forget the seamstresses like Josie Del Castillo and Daisy Lopez Fitze who’s lives were lost in the long struggle for worker safety and dignity on the job.

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