For the last in the MRV Libraries VT Reads series of events celebrating Katherine Paterson's book "Bread and Roses, Too," Mark Greenberg will present his program "Solidarity Forever: Songs of Unions and Labor." For centuries, working people have used songs to express protest and hope and as an organizing tool. In the U.S., the I.W.W (or Wobblies), which led the 1912 Bread and Roses strike, was especially known for its rousing and satirical songs, including the anthemic "Solidarity Forever." Using live and recorded music, Greenberg surveys American labor songs from the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution, through the Wobblies, and into the coal wars of the 1930. Mark Greenberg, an educator, writer, musician, and media producer who has taught at Goddard College and the University of Vermont and has produced award-winning recordings and radio and video documentaries.

Though not necessary to read Paterson's book to enjoy Mr. Greenberg's talk, copies are available at all three MRV libraries for those interested.

This talk is free, open to the public, and accessible to those with disabilities.

"Solidarity Forever: Songs of Union and Labor" is a Vermont Humanities Council program hosted by the Warren Public Library and supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Jan 13, 2025, 5:30 to 7 PM

Jan 17, 2025, 6 to 8 PM

Jan 18, 2025, 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM