Create Your Own Union Bug: A Fun Way to Learn Labor History

Engaging Students with the History of Union Bugs

In an innovative approach to teaching labor history, students in elementary and middle schools are being introduced to the concept of union bugs through a creative activity. This teaching method is designed to help young learners relate historical labor movements to their everyday lives.

For those unfamiliar, a union bug is a tiny emblem commonly seen on printed items, signifying that the product was made by unionized workers. Similarly, union labels can be found sewn inside garments, indicating union labor involvement.

This educational activity not only identifies where union bugs appear today but also invites students to design their own versions. Through this hands-on project, students are encouraged to forge a personal connection with labor history. They even get the chance to vote on a design to symbolize their class or group, which can then be used on their homework or class assignments, fostering a sense of solidarity.

By learning about current locations of union bugs, students are able to link the history of unions with contemporary society, illustrating that the labor movement is not just a relic of the past but a vital part of the present and future.