IWW stands for the Industrial Workers of the World, often referred to as the IWW or the Wobblies. It is a labor union and radical industrial union organization founded in Chicago, United States, in 1905. The IWW is known for its unique approach to unionism, as it seeks to organize all workers regardless of skill level, industry, or occupation. This inclusive philosophy is encapsulated in the union's slogan, "An injury to one is an injury to all."
The IWW operates on the principles of industrial unionism, aiming to organize all workers within a single industry into one union, as opposed to dividing workers by specific trades or crafts. The organization also emphasizes direct action and grassroots activism to achieve its goals, instead of relying solely on collective bargaining or political channels. The use of tactics such as strikes, boycotts, and sabotage has historically been mobilized by the IWW to fight for better working conditions, fair treatment, and the abolition of the wage system altogether.
The IWW has been involved in numerous labor struggles throughout its history, including the Lawrence textile strike in 1912, the Paterson silk strike in 1913, and the Minneapolis Teamsters' strikes in 1934. Despite being marginalized at times, the IWW has left a lasting impact on the labor movement with its radical approach and commitment to solidarity. Today, the IWW continues to exist as an international labor union, advocating for workers' rights and promoting a vision of a more equitable society.
