Commemorating the date of the Bay View labor strike and tragedy and requiring the permanent removal of the portrait of Jeremiah Rusk from public display in the assembly parlor and instead requiring that a portrait of former Governor Tommy G. Thompson be hung in the assembly parlor.
Impact
The resolution mandates the removal of the portrait of Governor Jeremiah Rusk, who ordered the militia's intervention, from public display in the assembly parlor. In its place, a portrait of former Governor Tommy G. Thompson will be hung. This decision is symbolic, as it seeks to acknowledge the tragic legacy of the Bay View strike and the workers who faced violence while advocating for their rights. By enshrining this history in the assembly, the resolution aims to honor the sacrifices made by those involved in the labor movement, serving as a reminder of their contributions to worker safety and rights.
Summary
Assembly Resolution 8 (AR8) serves to commemorate the significant historical event known as the Bay View labor strike, which occurred in Milwaukee in 1886. The resolution highlights the struggles of workers who were advocating for basic rights, including humane working hours, during a time of intense labor unrest. It emphasizes the contributions of Wisconsin workers to labor reform in the United States, notably in the establishment of principles like the eight-hour workday. The Bay View strike is particularly noteworthy due to its tragic outcome, where strikers were fired upon by the state militia, resulting in fatalities and injuries among peaceful demonstrators.
Contention
While the bill itself does not directly amend any laws, it has introduced discussions about the legacy of labor relations in Wisconsin and the interpretation of historical events. Some may view the removal of Rusk's portrait as a necessary step towards recognizing the struggles for labor rights, while others could see it as controversial, touching on themes of historical memory and accountability. There could also be debates around the appropriateness of commemorating certain figures and events in public spaces, reflecting ongoing tensions around labor rights and state authority.
Notable_points
The Bay View tragedy is an important historical episode that raises critical issues regarding state intervention in labor disputes. This resolution not only seeks to commemorate a dark chapter in labor history but also encourages current and future discussions about labor rights, safety, and the role of government in labor relations. The resolution thereby stands as a significant gesture of reflection and acknowledgment of Wisconsin's labor history.
Commending artist Ken Pridgeon of Baytown for painting portraits of fallen service members from the Lone Star State and donating the prints to their families.