Labor reform and Michigan have long gone hand in hand.

While much of that legacy is tied to the rise of the United Auto Workers, whose organizing efforts in the 1930s helped define modern union power nationwide, that’s just one part of the bigger picture.

Today, The ’Gander’s Sophie Boudreau revisits five pivotal moments that cemented Michigan’s place at the heart of the labor movement.

Plus: This handy website lets you see flock cameras in your community.

Romulus leaders pass resolution opposing ICE detention facility (WXYZ): Romulus city leaders unanimously passed a resolution opposing a proposed ICE detention facility Monday night, as demonstrators and counter-protesters clashed outside city hall ahead of the meeting. Local leaders and many residents argued it would harm public safety and development, with the mayor vowing not to issue permits unless ordered by a federal judge.

Whitmer to push for affordable housing in final State of the State (WCMU): Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is making affordable housing a centerpiece of her final year in office ahead of her State of the State address Wednesday. She’s proposing a new housing tax credit and regulatory changes to lower construction costs and increase supply.

Detroit Lions set to play in Germany (MLive): The Detroit Lions announced they will play an international game in Germany during the 2026 season at FC Bayern Munich Stadium, with the exact date and opponent to be announced later. The matchup is the franchise’s first overseas appearance since 2015 and will count as one of next season’s home games.

Workers guard an entrance to the Fisher plant during the 1936 Flint Sit-Down Strike. (US Dept. of Agriculture/Public Domain) 

By Sophie Boudreau

Labor historians might argue that union organizing in the United States would not exist in its current form without the contributions of Michigan workers.

In fact, the efforts of the United Auto Workers (UAW) in the 1930s and beyond are widely credited as foundational elements for organizing among the broader American working class. The UAW has helped industrial employees achieve higher wages and safer workplace conditions across the board.

While the efforts of labor unions remain critical to supporting Michigan’s working class today, it’s important to look back at some of the labor movement’s most consequential moments. From hard-fought negotiations to strikes and marches, the legacy of labor organizing in Michigan is storied and bold. Here are five times labor unions made history in our state.

Random tidbits worth clicking on…

Ever wondered where the Flock cameras in your community are? (AP Photo/David Goldman, File)

🎦 Flock cameras have been in the news a lot lately, and not for the best reasons. This handy website lets you see if you’re driving past them on your daily commute.

☀️ I thought arguments against wind turbines were silly. But this Michigan county wants to ban solar panels because, according to them, they’re a health hazard? Experts (and science) say otherwise.

🏅 The US men’s hockey team is getting a lot of love right now. But let’s not forget to show some love to all of the Team USA athletes who represented Michigan.

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from Sophie Boudreau. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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