Topic: Wagner Act
The Wagner Act, also known as the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, was a landmark piece of legislation that greatly impacted Black workers and labor rights. The Act was part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal initiatives and aimed to protect the rights of workers to organize unions and engage in collective bargaining with their employers.
For Black workers, the Wagner Act was particularly significant as it helped to address longstanding issues of discrimination and inequality in the workplace. Prior to the passage of the Act, Black workers faced numerous barriers to joining unions and were often excluded from or marginalized within the labor movement.
The Wagner Act prohibited employers from interfering with workers' rights to join unions and established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to enforce these protections. This allowed Black workers to more effectively organize and advocate for better wages, working conditions, and opportunities for advancement.
Overall, the Wagner Act played a crucial role in advancing labor rights and empowering workers, including Black workers, to advocate for their interests and improve their economic and social standing.