Milwaukee Residents Recall Episode Of Anti-Labor Violence

At an event commemorating a bloody chapter in the history of Wisconsin’s labor movement, an advocate called on voters to quiz political candidates on issues like raising the minimum wage before agreeing to support the politicians.

At least 200 people came to a Sunday afternoon ceremony in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood to mark 129th anniversary of a state militia killing seven people in a crowd demonstrating for an eight-hour workday.

Guest speaker Jennifer Epps-Addison of Wisconsin Jobs Now said workers today continue to face struggles, and should challenge political candidates seeking their vote.

“I say that nobody who hasn’t signed on to Rep. Melissa Sargent’s bill for a $15-an-hour living wage for this state should come to Milwaukee and ask for a vote from any one of you. Do you feel me on that?” Epps-Addison told the crowd.

Epps-Addison said workers in fast food, home care, classroom assistance and other jobs deserve the same type of comfort as politicians and business owners.