Memphis sanitation workers remember the 1968 strike, 40 years later

In 1968, 1,300 sanitation workers persuaded the union that the time was right to wage a battle with the city of Memphis, Memphis Police Department (Frank Holloman), and Mayor Henry Loeb.
Men still employed with the city talk about how it was 40 years ago, retelling the story of the history they lived.
Citing years of poor treatment, discrimination, dangerous working conditions, black sanitation workers walked off the job in protest. The sanitation workers also wanted to join the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
The slogan "I Am A Man" emerged as a unifying civil rights theme from this event.
The strike was declared illegal. The protesters were met with tear gas and worse.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was at the front of the march.
The workers remember understanding the importance of the strike, even as they lived it.

[@suzannascarlettsladojevic2790]

And strangely this type of civil rights movement "I am a man" silently continues. As many people are still at odds with the social class system.

[@martinamorgan1119]

God sent this men Martin l king

[@kalebnbrown]

This is great! Thanks for your courage!

[@spiritledwoman]

I am blessed to have my uncle in my life

[@victormalyar9200]

I'm not, mine is very selfish who did very little for me.

[@latricelongstreet8199]

That’s my grandad in between the signs 🖤🖤. He’s still living to tell the story ❤️

[@DSNYSANMAN]

We support you guy's. Great job! NYC DEPT OF SANITATION!

[@victormalyar9200]

New York's strongest.

[@martinamorgan1119]

Bless all

[@iamDavidaRose]

I saw Rev CL Franklin. Aretha's Father.

[@martinamorgan1119]

he gave his life

[@AngimeroLeBron]

Oh wow!!

[@jacobzaranyika9334]

I AM A HUMAN! With HUMAN rights...