Page 18 - Work Force March 2024

Early labor fight helps pave path
Despite having limited career opportunities throughout much of U.S. history, women have played a key role in the ongoing fight for fairness on the job.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, here is a look at one early movement for workers’ rights that strongly influenced the labor movement as we know it today.
In the 1830s, decades before widespread union organizing, women employed at textile mills in Lowell, Mass., who were already working about 13 hours per day
at mills filled with poor air quality, fought back after the bosses cut their wages.
They went on strike twice to fight for fair wages, encouraging workers at several different mills to join them.
While these strikes were unsuccessful, the workers put a dent in the mill’s operations and kept up the pressure.
In the 1840s, Sarah Bagley
and other mill workers formed the Lowell Female Labor Reform Association, believed to be
the first union of
working women
in history. Bagley served as the association’s president and led the group to grow to nearly 600 members. They also organized chapters in nearby communities
in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Although women did not have the right to vote, the association turned to a tactic important to the labor movement today – political action.
The association organized a petition campaign to urge the Massachusetts Legislature to approve a 10-hour workday. Thousands of workers signed a series of petitions, which led to legislative hearings.
Bagley and other workers testified before political leaders to urge Massachusetts elected leaders to cap the workday at 10 hours.
The association’s fight for the 10-hour workday was largely unsuccessful in Massachusetts, but New Hampshire became the first state to pass a 10-hour workday law, which was unenforceable at that time.
The association also campaigned against a state representative who had opposed their efforts and defeated him.
Nearly 200 years later, there
is still work to do to ensure full justice for women in the workplace, but the Lowell mill workers showed a lesson that is still relevant today. When we stand together, we can make positive change.
— Ashley McNeal
For more on Women’s History Month, see pages 4, 10-11.
Bagley
Safeguarding your vision:
An EBF guide to UV protection
The CSEA Employee Benefit Fund (EBF) administers comprehensive vision plans for New York State Employees, Unified Court System employees and more than 600 local government bargaining units.
In addition to offering valuable negotiated benefits, the CSEA EBF sees itself as a partner in your overall health.
Protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health. UV exposure can lead to various eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Here’s how to shield your eyes effectively:
1. Polarized UV-blocking sunglasses
Choose sunglasses labeled as providing 100% UV protection or UV400, indicating they block both UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses are also a great option and reduce glare and enhance visual clarity, especially during outdoor activities. Polarized lenses are available with any of our vision plans for a $75 copayment.
2. Polycarbonate lenses
Polycarbonate lenses offer built-in UV protection without additional coatings. Lightweight and impact-resistant, they’re ideal for active lifestyles and outdoor adventures. These lenses can be tinted to make effective sunglasses. Both polycarbonate lenses and tinting are included with any of our vision plans for no additional cost.
3. UV lens coatings
Consider lenses with UV coatings for upgraded protection. These coatings enhance the ability of
eyeglass lenses to block harmful UV rays. If you choose plastic lenses, you might consider adding a UV coating for a $12 copayment.
4. Photosensitive lenses (transitions)
Photosensitive lenses automatically adjust their tint level in response to changing light conditions and provide built in UV protection indoors and outdoors. They offer convenience and continuous defense against UV radiation throughout the day. Photosensitive lenses can be purchased with any of our plans for a $65 copayment.
5. Additional tips
Wear wide-brimmed hats or visors and seek shade during peak sun hours. Always consult with your eye care professional to discuss UV protection options tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle preferences.
Prioritizing UV protection
is essential for safeguarding
your vision. By investing in UV- blocking sunglasses, incorporating polycarbonate lenses, UV coatings and transition lenses into your eyewear, and adopting sun-safe habits, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence, knowing your eyes are well-protected. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to your eye health.
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18 The Work Force
March 2024