Industrial Workers of the World Day

Industrial Workers of the World Day, observed annually on June 27, honors the founding meeting of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) on June 27, 1905.

History of Industrial Workers of the World Day

The roots of this day date back to June 27, 1905, when over 200 labor activists—including leaders like William “Big Bill” Haywood, Eugene V. Debs, Mother Jones, and Lucy Parsons—gathered in Chicago to establish the IWW, with the aim of uniting all workers into “One Big Union”. From the start, the Wobblies distinguished themselves by organizing across races, industries, and skill levels—bringing together agricultural laborers, miners, textile workers, dockworkers, and more.

Over the decades, the IWW earned a reputation for radical action—leading significant strikes like the 1912 Lawrence “Bread and Roses” textile strike and supporting workers often excluded by mainstream unions. Industrial Workers of the World Day emerged as an annual reflection on their legacy, reminding us of the sacrifices made in pursuit of justice, solidarity, and dignity at work.

Why is Industrial Workers of the World Day important?

It’s compelling how remembering the IWW brings into sharp relief the idea that collective struggle can reshape society. These folks weren’t satisfied with modest reforms. Instead, they envisioned a world where workers themselves controlled the tools and fruits of their labor. That radical spark still resonates today, pushing us to question whether workers—gig, migrant, service—truly have a say.

This day also encourages us to recognize those whose stories often go untold: immigrant women in textile mills, loggers in remote camps, or auto-workers striking for humane hours. Their courage reminds us that broad solidarity isn’t some abstract ideal—it’s lived in strikes, community gatherings, and organizing efforts.

• It spotlights voices and lives traditionally ignored by mainstream labor history.
• It prompts us to reflect on how much—yet how little—has changed for today’s workers.
• It reminds us that real change often requires challenging powerful systems.
• It honors a vision of unity that transcends race, skill, language, or immigration status.
• It inspires modern solidarity—allied workers, unions, and movements—to carry that legacy forward.

How to Observe Industrial Workers of the World Day

You don’t need to join a march to feel part of this legacy. This June 27, think about reading a bit on Wobbly history—maybe Joe Hill’s songs or the 1912 textile strike. That historical context helps frame modern struggles: gig workers, warehouse conditions, or migrant labor rights.

Another idea is to reach out—possibly buy coffee from a unionized café, donate to a workers’ rights organization, or support a union drive in your industry. Those small acts reflect the solidarity at the heart of the IWW mission—workers supporting workers.

• Read and share a Wobbly song or story.
• Support a unionized or worker-owned business.
• Attend a local labor-themed event or webinar.
• Donate to or volunteer with a worker‑rights group.
• Write or speak about why labor solidarity still matters.

Industrial Workers of the World Day Dates Table