National Day

National White Shirt Day

Celebrated on 02/11/2026

Quick Fact

National White Shirt Day is celebrated on February 11, marking the anniversary of the 1937 Flint Sit-Down Strike victory against General Motors. The white shirt symbolizes the formal attire workers wore when they returned to the factories after the strike, representing their dignity and newfound bargaining power.

Origins and Establishment of National White Shirt Day

National White Shirt Day was established to commemorate the end of the Flint Sit-Down Strike, a pivotal labor action that took place from December 30, 1936, to February 11, 1937. On that final day, the United Auto Workers (UAW) reached a landmark agreement with General Motors, recognizing the union as the sole bargaining representative for its members. The strike involved workers occupying GM plants, risking arrest and violence, to demand better wages, working conditions, and the right to unionize. The holiday was initiated by UAW Local 598 in Flint, Michigan, to honor the courage of the strikers and the significance of their victory.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially observed primarily by UAW members and labor activists, National White Shirt Day has grown to be recognized more broadly within labor movements and some communities. On this day, workers and supporters wear white shirts to symbolize the solidarity and dignity of labor. Events include speeches, educational programs, and reenactments. While it remains a grassroots commemoration, it has gained attention through social media campaigns and union-organized activities. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and the importance of collective bargaining.

Facts & General Observations

  • The Flint Sit-Down Strike involved nearly 4,000 workers and lasted 44 days, making it one of the most significant labor disputes in U.S. history.
  • The victory at General Motors led to a wave of unionization across the auto industry and other sectors, boosting UAW membership from 30,000 to 500,000 within a year.
  • National White Shirt Day is not a federal holiday but is recognized by many labor unions and organizations, especially in Michigan and other industrial states.

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