Overdue History Lesson

PENNSYLVANIA

A historical marker recently installed at the state capitol in Harrisburg commemorates public-sector unionism. The sign owes its existence to Council 13 members who pressured the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission to erect it.

Although the PHMC has put up more than 2,000 markers — telling stories of settlers, athletes, struggles for freedom and the like — the commission initially denied Council 13's request to honor collective bargaining. An article in the council's newspaper, Public Employee Press, helped change the commissioners' minds. Declared Council Exec. Dir. David Fillman (an International vice president) at the dedication ceremony: "Thirty-five years ago, on these very steps, state workers picketed the capitol. What did they want? The freedom to join a union. This marker commemorates their struggle and their victory."