New-York tribune., 1902-07-18
SYMPATHETIC STRIKES FAIL.

I have been closely associated with the strug-
giles OF the anthracite mine workers. have taken
felt so keenly their Joys and SORROWS that il
grieves me more than language can express to say
expressed by in favor of a national suspension
the confidence and friendship OF nv craftsmen
who have honOTed signally, I cannot and
and friendship by subordinating my personal con-
viction OF the right and advocating policy which
would in the end bring disaster and dishOnor upon
the organization whose destiny IL is my privi-
labor movement declared that contracts mutually
made should during their life be kept inviolats.
observer or to those Immediately concerned that
advantage could De gained by setting agreements
aside. such advantage, II gained would, in the
very nature of things. be temporary and would
of contracts strikes the very vitals of organized
labor. The effect of such action would be TO de-
cause all forces of society. and to crystalline public
sentiment in opposition to our movement.
the efficacy OF such methods appeals strongly TO
not always recognize the effect of their action upon
the public mind; but the history Of the labor move
ten to-day. do not know OF one solitary sym
successful ON the Contrary the most conspicu-
Gus among the sympathetic labor struggles have
only for the branch OF industry originally involved
but also for the divisions partcipaung through
sympathy. In my Judgment the United Mine
Workers should not repeat the mistakes which. like
masses in their never ceasing struggle for better
and higher civilization This. like all great. pro
gathering rev strength in in adversely. moves for
victory. Each defeat should teach lessons of IN
estimable value in framing the lines upon which
MUST PRESERVE HONOR
If this convention act wisely. il IL Iegislate judi
be so concentrated against the arrogant and un-
reasonable attitude or dne ahnFaeIts Sod operstIs
ment with their employees which shall insure living
fa and ba IaE oT future i of fh% wage
questions that shall render strikes with their at
IL had been the proud boast OF the United Mine
Years or since our organization became power in
the labor world contracts based solely upon the
most trying circumstances been kept nyiolate. and
high standard that has made union pre-eminent
among organizations Of labor would prove sub
stimulation Of all the charges and allegations made
against by our enemies. and would confirm be-
yOnd the possibility OF reiutatOn the speelOIs afSu
United Mine Workers Of America is an irresponsi-
bic and unsafe body with which 10 deal
PRESIDENT MITCHELLs PLAN.
am firm in my conviction that the strike in the
an5hraGe oT soemn Contracts With the btnmn6
operators. provided the bitumnouS miners viii rise
struggling fellow workers and with this in mind I
desire to submit for your consideration the follow
ing specific recommendation
FIrst-That the national secretary-treasurer be
5000 from the funds in the national treasury and
place 1t at the disposal OF the officers of districts
Second-That all districts. sub-districts and local
unions be appealed to- to donate from the surplus
In their treasures as large amounts as they can
AFFORD.
Third-That an assessment OF not less than 81 a
week be levied upon all members Of local unions.
the amount levied 20 be collected at the earliest
possible moment and forwarded TO the national
secretary treasur T.
Fourth-That an assessment OF = per cent be
levied upon all national district and sub-districr
officers whose salaries amount TO $50 a month or
more.
Fifth-That appeal be made to all American
trades unions and TO the general public for financial