Sitdowns, scabs, goon squads, unemployment, hunger marches, red baiting and finally the
energetic birth of the CIO–the 1930s were a landmark period for the American labor movement.
Union Maids is the story of three women who lived the history and make it come alive today. It was
the first film of its kind–an oral history, using a wealth of footage from the National Archives to
chronicle the fight to form industrial unions as seen through the eyes of rank and file women.
UNION MAIDS is an oral history film made (possibly the first) from the first-person stories of three
older women activists who were veterans of the struggle to form industrial unions and fight the Great
Depression in the 1930’s and early 40’s.
The three women, Kate Hyndman, Stella Nowicki and Sylvia Woods, all came to Chicago as young
people, each getting involved in radical activities of the time. They are all natural storytellers; each
story is unique but all convey their desire to fight for the rights of working class people.
“This inspiring film will be a classic. It makes the 1930s live. It makes you laugh, makes you cheer.
It’s going to be shown through the years, to millions.” Pete Seeger
Check out the trailer here. – Runtime 50 min
Note: This film will be shown in person in Sandburg Hall and on Zoom. If you wish to view
the film on Zoom, request a link from Charlie Wussow at mnpopi@icloud.com . If you intend
to view the film in person, please RSVP YES for planning purposes.
Due to technical limitations, there will be separate in person and Zoom discussions
Justice Ministry Film Night Friday, March 8th, 7 PM
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville
One Edwin Place, Asheville, NC 28801