Reflections on the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike

News Summary

The 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike stands as a historic moment in the civil rights movement, highlighting the economic struggles of Black Americans. Through personal reflections and the brave actions of over 1,000 sanitation workers, the event not only demanded better wages and working conditions but also spotlighted ongoing issues of police brutality and economic disparities that persist today. The legacy of the strike, symbolized by ‘I Am a Man,’ serves as a powerful reminder of the continuing fight for dignity and justice in Memphis.

Reflections on the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike and Its Impact on Black History

Memphis, a city rich in history and culture, carries the echoes of the past that still resonate with the challenges of today. One of those profound moments in Memphis history is the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike, a pivotal event in the broader civil rights movement that highlighted the economic struggles of Black Americans and their fight for dignity and respect.

Childhood Memories of Struggle

Dr. LaSimba Gray, Pastor Emeritus of New Sardis Baptist Church, reflects on his childhood experiences during the civil rights era. He lived through a time when African Americans faced significant economic exploitation. In the 1950s, he worked tirelessly for ten hours a day in West Memphis, Arkansas, earning a mere $0.30 to $0.40 an hour—a stark contrast to the thousands of dollars made by cotton field owners each season. While he toiled under the hot sun, he could only earn between $3 to $4 a day.

This pattern of exploitation didn’t end with slavery. Sharecropping left many African-American families trapped in a cycle of debt to landowners and their stores, a system designed to keep them from thriving financially. Dr. Gray’s life experiences shaped his understanding of the ongoing struggle faced by Black individuals in the workforce.

Fear of Authority

Living in North Memphis, Dr. Gray recalls the fear that permeated the community. Many Black residents felt compelled to hide from police interactions, as the prevalent police brutality often left scars on people’s bodies and spirits. The sight of men injured due to police aggression was all too common, with bandages known as “John Gaston turbans” becoming painful symbols of their suffering.

The Strike Begins

Fast forward to 1968, and Memphis saw over 1,000 sanitation workers take a bold stand by going on strike. Their demands were simple yet powerful: better wages and improved working conditions. Jocelyn Wurzburg, a civil rights advocate, noted that many workers lived in neighborhoods without basic sanitation systems, highlighting the dire circumstances they faced daily.

These sanitation workers endured long hours in harsh weather, often carrying garbage without proper safety measures. Additionally, workers like Elmore Nickleberry felt the added stigma of their profession, which made public transportation and daily life a challenge. They were simply fighting for a chance at a better life—a cause ignited by tragedy when two sanitation workers, Robert Walker and Echol Cole, tragically died due to a malfunctioning garbage truck.

Turning Point for Civil Rights

The strike quickly gained traction, drawing public attention and protests against the city’s treatment of workers. The involvement of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. marked a turning point for the movement. He stepped into the fray in support of the sanitation workers, promising that his presence would usher in positive change. King passionately addressed a large crowd, emphasizing the importance of their struggle and the dignity each worker deserved.

However, the road to justice was anything but straightforward. The plans for a march on March 28 were marred by violence, as police aggression escalated against peaceful protestors, including the tragic shooting of a minor. Just a day before his assassination, King delivered a compelling speech on April 3, emphasizing hope for the future of the workers.

Legacy of the Strike

After two long months of striking, an agreement was finally reached between the union and city officials, bringing an end to a historic struggle. In a symbolic gesture, a portion of Beale Street was renamed “1968 Strikers Lane” to honor the sacrifices of the sanitation workers. However, even with this victory, lingering issues remained. In 2024, the poverty rate for Black residents in Memphis was alarmingly noted at 27.1%, compared to just 8.9% for white residents.

Continuing the Fight

Dr. Gray emphasizes that the fight isn’t over yet. The need for ongoing dialogue about wage disparities and improving relations between the police and the community remains urgent. Incidents of police brutality continue to plague Memphis, exemplified by the heart-wrenching case of Tyre Nichols and ongoing investigations into unlawful practices within the police department.

The strikes of 1968 have not been forgotten, nor the courage of those who participated. Joe Calhoun, one such participant, reminisces about the poignant signs created during the strike that proclaimed “I Am a Man,” symbolizing a resounding call for dignity amidst adversity. Celebrating the legacy of the sanitation strike reminds us that while progress has been made, the journey toward true equality and justice is still unfolding in Memphis today.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Severe Weather Causes Garbage Collection Suspension in Memphis
Reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy in Uncertain Times
Family Honors Herbert Parson’s Legacy on MLK Day
Nashville Schools Reflect on Legacy of Nonviolence Education
Memphis Remembers Bill Lucy: A Legacy of Civil Rights and Labor Advocacy

Additional Resources

• Washington Informer: Memphis Sanitation Strike
• Local Memphis: Black History Month in Memphis
• MLK50: The Sanitation Workers Strike
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis Sanitation Workers Strike
• FOX13 Memphis: Son of Sanitation Worker