Today’s labor unions have the origins in medieval times and are close cousins of corporations.
David Kowalski, of Groveland, a 42-year employee of the gas company, discussed a bit of union history during Monday night’s 97.9 WHAV Open Mike Show. He teaches at the Labor Guild School, the oldest continuing adult labor-education center, which is now registering students for its fall term.
The Labor Guild traces its history to the Great Depression when Boston’s William Cardinal O’Connell authorized local parishes to have adult night classes designed to encourage union organizing. Called “The Labor Guild” in some locations and “Catholic Labor School” in others, students learned about labor law, grievance administration, contract negotiations, public speaking and related topics.
At the invitation of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston, the Guild is now housed at the church’s Pastoral Center in Braintree.
The Labor Guild’s fall term begins Sept. 11. Classes include negotiations, steward training, public speaking, employment law and labor history. Those interested may contact The Labor Guild at 781-340-7887 or visit laborguild.com.