The Memphis sanitation workers' strike was a historic labor protest that took place in Memphis, Tennessee in 1968. The strike was primarily led by African American sanitation workers who were protesting against poor working conditions, low wages, and racial discrimination.

The trigger for the strike was the deaths of two sanitation workers, Echol Cole and Robert Walker, who were crushed to death in a malfunctioning garbage truck. The workers were not provided with proper equipment or training, and their grievances were not addressed by the city government.

Led by civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the sanitation workers went on strike on February 11, 1968, demanding union recognition, better wages, and improved working conditions. The strike garnered national attention and support from the civil rights community.

Tragically, Dr. King was assassinated in Memphis on April 4, 1968, while supporting the strike. His death galvanized the movement and brought renewed attention to the plight of the sanitation workers.

After Dr. King's assassination, the strike continued and eventually, the city of Memphis agreed to the workers' demands, recognizing their union and improving their working conditions.

The Memphis sanitation workers' strike was a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, highlighting the intersecting issues of race, labor rights, and social justice. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and dignity in the workplace.