Salt of the Earth: An inspirational movie classic with lessons for tough times
Saturday 2 May, 6:30 pm Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick
This film tells the story of the Empire Zinc mine strike — one of the most dramatic international union struggles of the McCarthy years. The strike, by Mexican-American miners, started over wages and conditions that were clearly discriminatory compared to Anglo miners in New Mexico. Radical leadership, multi-racial solidarity and the power of women who broke with traditional sex roles were key to the victory of the strike. Two years after the hard fought 17-month battle ended, the story was brought to life in Salt of the Earth, an extraordinary feature film that unforgettably portrays the racism against the miners, the picket line battles and the dynamic leadership of the women. It was made by an independent company of blacklisted Hollywood filmmakers and actors who worked in conjunction with the mineworkers’ union. Denounced as subversive, its makers were harassed and the lead actor — Rosaura Revueltas — was deported to Mexico. Cinemas across the country banned Salt of the Earth. Despite this, the film became an underground classic embraced by the Women’s Liberation movement and chosen by The Library of Congress as one of the 100 American films to be preserved for posterity.
Salt of the Earth: An inspirational movie classic with lessons for tough times
Saturday 2 May, 6:30 pm Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick
This film tells the story of the Empire Zinc mine strike — one of the most dramatic international union struggles of the McCarthy years. The strike, by Mexican-American miners, started over wages and conditions that were clearly discriminatory compared to Anglo miners in New Mexico. Radical leadership, multi-racial solidarity and the power of women who broke with traditional sex roles were key to the victory of the strike. Two years after the hard fought 17-month battle ended, the story was brought to life in Salt of the Earth, an extraordinary feature film that unforgettably portrays the racism against the miners, the picket line battles and the dynamic leadership of the women. It was made by an independent company of blacklisted Hollywood filmmakers and actors who worked in conjunction with the mineworkers’ union. Denounced as subversive, its makers were harassed and the lead actor — Rosaura Revueltas — was deported to Mexico. Cinemas across the country banned Salt of the Earth. Despite this, the film became an underground classic embraced by the Women’s Liberation movement and chosen by The Library of Congress as one of the 100 American films to be preserved for posterity.
Come and be inspired by this story of struggle against racism, sexism and class exploitation on the big screen at Solidarity Salon. Then discuss the movie with like-minded moviegoers and explore lessons for today.
Saturday 2 May, 6:30 pm
6:30 pm: Enjoy a Hearty New Mexico Strike Kitchen Dinner ($10 donation)
7:30 pm: Movie lover and CPSU workplace delegate Alison Thorne will introduce the film, which runs for 94 minutes.
9:30 pm: Relax, discuss the film and celebrate May Day.
Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick
Easily accessible by public transport: take the Upfield train to Anstey Station or Tram 19 to Stewart St. There’s also plenty of parking off Staley Street at the rear.
Hosted by the Freedom Socialist Party
Everyone is welcome!
For more information, phone 03-9388-0062 or
email freedom.socialist.party@ozemail.com.au.
www.socialism.com
