The Lasting Effect of the Factory Fire
The protests after the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, Courtesy of National Archives
Unions like the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ and the Women's' Trade Union League fought for changes in factory protocols, new building codes, and better fire safety laws. After the changes were made, working class people were able to work in a safer and more hospitable environment. This was a catalyst to decreasing working hours, a decrease in child labor, and higher salaries for workers in general. This event also shone a light on the advocacy for all workers rights leading to an increase of union participation. Workers were able to speak more freely about their own wages and rights to take breaks.
“There have been no carriages, no imposing marshals on horseback; just thousands and thousands of working men and women carrying the banners of their trade through the long three-mile tramp in the rain. Never have I seen a military pageant or triumphant ovation so impressive...
~Martha Bensley Bruere