Everett Unions Mobilize Against the 'White Plague'
The Trades Council joins a city-wide public health campaign to confront tuberculosis, designating a special 'Labor Night' to educate workers.
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A local war upon tuberculosis has been inaugurated under the auspices of the State Board of Health. A representative, Dr. Kelly, met with the Chamber of Commerce to arrange for the state board's exhibit to be shown in Everett during the week of January 17th. An executive committee, including Miss Eva Bailey, County Superintendent of Schools, and Rev. William Randall, was formed to lead the effort. Five evening and three afternoon meetings will provide educational programs free to the public. The Everett Trades Council has officially joined the campaign, selecting Wednesday evening, January 19, as 'Labor Night,' and has called upon all members to attend to learn about the prevention of the disease.
“The object of bringing the exhibit to Everett is to enlist the co-operation of all citizens in encouraging the prevention and cure of contagious diseases in general and of consumption in particular.”
In 1910, tuberculosis was a primary cause of death in industrial cities like Everett, often worsened by crowded, unsanitary living conditions. This public health push by labor organizations highlights how unions historically took responsibility for community welfare, a precursor to modern debates over healthcare accessibility and occupational safety.
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