LANSING — State Rep. Tim Sneller (D-Burton) introduced House Resolution 19 yesterday declaring Feb. 11, 2019, as White Shirt Day in the state of Michigan. White Shirt Day is meant to symbolize equal respect and treatment for blue-collar and white-collar workers, as well as the unity and strength of UAW members.
“Today’s workers owe a great deal to early UAW members — especially those that took part in the historic Flint Sit-Down Strike,” said Sneller. “The competitive pay and benefits many currently enjoy would not have been possible without these acts of courage, strength and sacrifice so many years ago. As a former GM worker and UAW member, I am honored to present this resolution as a demonstration of our appreciation for the UAW’s role in building Michigan’s workforce and communities.”
The origin of White Shirt day can be traced back to 1948, when it was first suggested that workers wear white shirts traditionally only worn by management. The act was intended to symbolize that both “blue-collar” and “white-collar” workers deserve equal treatment and respect in the workplace, and are equally important to the business.
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