"Why we wear Red"

Union members across the country wear red shirts on Wednesday to show solidarity and to make their voices heard by management in a small way. The practice was started by the Communication Workers of America who wear red on Thursdays in order to honor Gerry Hogan, a member who was killed while on the picket line. The practice has taken on even more significance with recent attacks on workers' rights by legislatures across the country.

We encourage you to wear red on Wednesdays and to organize your fellow workers to do the same. Read some tips below, and be sure tag the UAW in your #RedShirtWednesday photos!

TIPS FOR ORGANIZING RED SHIRT WEDNESDAY IN YOUR WORKPLACE

• Let your fellow workers know in advance, and be sure to remind them to wear red.
• Bring red accessories, such as bandanas, for others to wear in case they forget their shirt (or want to join in once they see everyone else decked out in red).
• Start small: concentrate on your department or area. A whole department wearing red can have more impact than a few people spread out across a plant.
• Let people know why you are wearing red; it’s a great conversation starter about the UAW and rights in the workplace.
• Post pictures on your social media pages, or those of your local. Ask your fellow workers what their union means to them and share your stories.

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