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“WORKERS . . . MUST POSSESSTHE RIGHT OF COLLECTIVE BARGAINING”
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●
ROOSEVELT, THEODORE. Typed Letter Signed, with several scattered holo-
graph corrections or additions, to Assemblyman Michael A. Schapp, urging that the
Legislature investigate the working conditions of certain industries that refuse to recognize
labor unions, urging also that they establish minimum wage boards for industries in which
none exist, sending a typed statement from a representative of the Cotton Garment
Manufacturers of New York concerning their attitude toward labor unions [present], and
sending a pamphlet containing a printed copy of the agreement between the workers and
employers of the U.S. dress and waist industry [present]. 6 pages, 4to, written on rectos
only; minor soiling and short closed tears at right edge throughout, horizontal fold. (TFC)
NewYork, 24 January 1913
[4,000/6,000]
“
. . . [I]t is now imperatively necessary that the Legislature of the State should undertake a thorough
investigation into the labor conditions of the special industries severally designated as white goods,
wrapper and kimona. . . .
“
. . . [T]he employers in those industries [do not] recognize the fundamental need that the employees
shall have the right to combine into unions . . . . Mr Harry A. Gordon, the counsel of the employers in
the white goods industry . . . . specifically admits that in some cases there is need of shorter hours of
employment, of improved sanitation, and of a rise in wages—on all of which points all my other infor-
mants entirely agree with him. . . .
“
I emphatically dissent from the position taken by Mr. Gordon as representative of the manufacturers
in their attitude toward trade unionism. . . .”
WITH
—
Three items: Typed statement by Harry A. Gordon, Counsel for the Cotton Garment
Manufacturers of New York, announcing the formation of the CGMNY, its dedication to improving
conditions in the industry, noting that it would “not deal with or recognize the Union,” and giving the
industry’s perspective of claims made about conditions in the industry by the press and others. 5 pages,
4to, written on rectos only. Np, [1913] * Typed letter from Harry A. Gordon to Schaap, stating that
he urged Roosevelt to demand an investigation into the garment industry and arguing that such an
investigation would benefit the industry. 3
1
/
2
pages, 4to, written on rectos only. NewYork, 13 February
1913 * Jules Henry Cohen.
Protocol of Peace in the Dress and Waist Industry
. 10 pages, 8vo,
original wrappers, stapled binding; many leaves detached. Np, [1913].
Michael A. Schapp (1874-1957) was floor leader for the Progressive Party in the New York State
Assembly during 1913 and 1914.