It is reasonable to expect fair compensation for increased productivity. In 1886, Chicago's proletariat striked for an eight-hour workday, proposing a peaceful resolution to end labor exploitation. Sadly, the movement's leaders were framed and murdered. By 1929 the proletariat advocated for a three hour work day. Today, with over a century of technological progress, one person can achieve 15 times more, as seen in Walmart's self-checkout system. Two people are now capable of producing what once took fifteen, but they are not compensated for producing a greater amount. They aren't adequately compensated for their increased output, receiving valueless fiat currency with the expectation that they say thank you and be grateful for it. Laws imposed without consent have reduced the proletariat to despotism, highlighting the need to awaken from our Orwellian dystopia.
The following is part of an interview by Albert R. Parsons printed in the Chicago Daily News, March 13, 1886 “The movement to reduce the work-hours is intended by its projectors to give a peaceful solution to the difficulties between the capitalists and laborers. I have always held that there were two ways to settle this trouble, either by peaceable means or violent methods. Reduced hours, or eight-hours, is the peace-offering. Fewer hours mean more pay. Reduced hours is the only measure of economic reform which consults the interests of the laborers as consumers. Now, this means a higher standard of living for the producers, which can only be acquired by possessing and consuming a larger share of their own product. This would diminish the profits of the labor exploiters.”
In the present day, acknowledging our subjugation is crucial. Turning a blind eye will leave future generations without a reference point to defend their rights against tyranny. True patriots must now set an example by declaring independence, withdrawing consent to be governed, and forming new community-centric governments. The despotism facing the American proletariat persists unless courageous individuals grasp the importance of unity and organization. Through solidarity, we can reclaim the means of production, aiming to place land and machinery in common use for the benefit of all.
Comments