The Biggest Labor Rally in Texas History (1979)

Duration: 0:15:39

Year Published: 1979

Sound: sound

Description: Made by the Texas AFL-CIO, this 1979 documentary chronicles a large rally in the Austin involving laborers and union members from all over the state. The goal of the protest was to fight Senate Bill 513. The bill was wildly unpopular amongst Texan laborers because it sought to repeal prevailing wage, a vital component to workers’ rights. Participants of the rally marched to the Texas State Capitol Building, singing old labor songs like “Solidarity Forever,” and eventually entering the building, chanting “Kill the bill!” In the end, the bill did not pass. However, the film includes a brief statement from Edward J. Carlough, General President of Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association, warning against the threat of government repeal.