Clara Lemlich was born on March 28, 1886, in the Ukraine to Jewish parents. In 1903, at the age of 17, she immigrated to the United States and settled in New York City. She quickly found work in the garment industry, a common occupation for immigrants at the time.
Clara became involved in labor activism after experiencing the harsh working conditions in the garment industry. In 1909, she emerged as a leader during the Uprising of 20,000, also known as the 1909 New York Shirtwaist Strike. This strike was a pivotal moment in labor history, as it was one of the largest strikes by female workers up to that point.
After the strike, Clara continued to fight for workers' rights and women's suffrage. She joined the Communist Party and became an active member of various activist organizations, including the Wage Earners' Suffrage League and the Women's Trade Union League.
Clara was married to Joe Shavelson for four decades, and they had three children together: Irving, Martha, and Rita. After Joe's passing in 1951, Clara remarried Abe Goldman, but the marriage ended in 1967.
Clara Lemlich's contributions to the labor movement and women's rights were significant and enduring. She played a crucial role in securing better working conditions for garment workers and advocating for suffrage for women. Her fearless leadership and dedication to social justice continue to inspire activists to this day.
Overall, Clara Lemlich's legacy as a civil rights leader and labor activist remains an important part of American history. Her bravery and commitment to social justice serve as a reminder of the power of grassroots movements and collective action in creating lasting change.
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