Born: 1890 (Concord, New Hampshire)
Died: 1964 (Soviet Union)
Biography:
Elizabeth Gurley Flynn (August 7, 1890 – September 5, 1964) was an American labor leader, activist, and feminist who played a pivotal role in the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) and the women’s rights movement. Born in Concord, New Hampshire, Flynn was raised in a family that embraced socialism, laying the foundation for her lifelong dedication to social justice.
Flynn’s early introduction to activism came at the age of 15 when she delivered her first public speech titled What Socialism Will Do for Women at the Harlem Socialist Club. This initial experience ignited a fire within her, compelling her to advocate for change and speak out against societal inequalities. Although she left Morris High School before graduating, some sources claim she was expelled due to her political involvement.
In 1907, Flynn embarked on a career as a full-time organizer for the Industrial Workers of the World. Over the following years, she tirelessly campaigned for various labor groups, including garment workers, silk weavers, restaurant workers, miners, and textile workers. Her dedication and passion earned her the nickname an East Side Joan of Arc by author Theodore Dreiser.
One of Flynn’s notable acts of civil disobedience occurred in 1909 during a free speech fight in Spokane. Faced with arrest, she defiantly chained herself to a lamppost, challenging the authorities and demanding workers’ rights. Her courageous stance gained attention and raised awareness of the struggles faced by laborers. In an attempt to silence her, the police tried to confiscate all copies of the Industrial Worker newspaper reporting her allegations of police misconduct, including the use of the jail as a brothel. The incident eventually led to the IWW being granted the right to hold speech meetings and the release of IWW protestors.
Throughout her career, Flynn faced numerous arrests, but she was never convicted of any criminal activity. However, in 1916, she was expelled from the IWW, along with fellow organizer Joe Ettor, as a result of a plea bargain. This expulsion marked a turning point in her activism.
Undeterred by her expulsion, Flynn continued to fight for justice and champion women’s rights. She became a founding member of the American Civil Liberties Union and a prominent advocate for birth control and women’s suffrage. Her unwavering dedication led her to join the Communist Party USA in 1936 and eventually become its chairwoman in 1961.
Flynn’s impact extended beyond the United States. In 1964, during a visit to the Soviet Union, she passed away, receiving the rare honor of a state funeral. Her funeral processions in Red Square were attended by over 25,000 people, a testament to her lasting influence and the admiration she garnered throughout her life.
Elizabeth Gurley Flynn’s legacy as a feminist, labor leader, and activist remains an inspiration to this day. Her commitment to equality, workers’ rights, and social justice serves as a foundation for future generations fighting for a fairer world.