Description
Reds at the Blackboard recounts the rise of a unique type of unionism in the early twentieth century that would later dominate the organizational efforts behind civil rights, academic freedom, and the empowerment of blacks and Latinos across the United States. Through its affiliation with the American Communist Party, the New York City Teachers Union pioneered what would later become social movement unionism, solidifying ties with labor groups, black and Latino parents, and civil rights organizations to acquire greater school and community resources. It also militantly fought to improve working conditions for teachers while championing broader social concerns. Clarence Taylor follows the union's early growth and the somewhat illegal attempts by the Board of Education to eradicate the group. He describes how the infamous Red Squad and other undercover agents worked to bring down the union, and how the union and its opponents wrestled with charges of anti-Semitism.
About the Author
Clarence Taylor is professor of history and black and Latino studies at Baruch College and professor of history at the Graduate Center, City University of New York. He has written or edited several books, including The Black Churches of Brooklyn and Knocking at Our Own Door: Milton A. Galamison and the Struggle to Integrate New York City Schools.
Reviews
In his study, Clarence Taylor...explores the nature and extent of the Communist influence. Relying on thorough research and presenting much detail, he finds that the Teachers Union (TU) indeed adopted policies of the Communist Party, but without abandoning the interests of the teachers they led. -- Robert D. Parmet History News Network ...offers a highly readable and engaging story of the rise of [the Teacher's Union] model, as well as the ferocious onslaught against it during the McCarthy era. It is a must-read... Socialist Worker.org Serious students of labor should read it. -- Steve Leberstein Working USA
Book Information
ISBN 9780231152693
Author Clarence Taylor
Format Paperback
Page Count 384
Imprint Columbia University Press
Publisher Columbia University Press