Brave Girl Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers’ Strike of 1909
Book Summary:
Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers’ Strike of 1909 tells the true story of Clara Lemlich, a young immigrant who fights for fair treatment of women working in garment factories in New York City. Despite harsh conditions and great risks, Clara helps organize one of the largest strikes in U.S. history. Her courage shows how one brave girl can stand up for justice and spark real change.
Recommended Questions:
Why do you think Clara was able to find work when her parents could not?
Some wealthy women who didn’t work in the factories joined the march that Clara organized. What are other ways people outside the factories might have supported this cause?
In what ways were children’s voices or perspectives represented in these marches?
How do you think the protestors would describe the injustices they wanted to change?
Who benefited from these injustices, and who was harmed by them?
What fears might the protestors have faced? What fears might their opponents have had?
How has this march and the protestors’ actions influenced our society today?
Standards:
NCSS Theme 10: Civic Ideals and Practices
This theme focuses on how citizens work together to promote fairness and improve their communities. Clara’s efforts to organize garment workers show the power of civic participation and collective action in creating change.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 17: Responsibility to Stand for Injustice
This standard encourages understanding how inequities are rooted in systems of power and how people can act together to create change. Clara and the striking workers exemplify how collective effort can challenge injustice and advance equality.
WA Civics 4: Understands Civic Involvement
This standard emphasizes knowing ways people can influence government and society. Clara models civic involvement by leading strikes, using her voice, and inspiring others to act for justice and safer working conditions.
