Bridges Center: Labor Studies Summer School

The following is from the Bridges Center:

SEATTLE, WA (June 26, 2026) — The Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies at the University of Washington invites you to the inaugural Labor Studies Summer School on Saturday, July 11 for a day of learning history, building skills, and discussing the future of the labor movement. Workers, students, activists – all are welcome and registration (including lunch) is free.

The theme, “Workers Confront Racial Capitalism,” will explore how the labor movement past and present is often divided by race but also represents a potent force against racism.  Space is limited and registration is required. Register online.

The day will kick off with a program led by Moon-Ho Jung, Professor of History and Director of the Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies, titled “DEI Is Not the Problem (or the Solution): Framing Race and Labor in US History.” Next, Bridges Center Research Director Rachel Erstad will lead participants in a research skills workshop, “Democratizing Information: Introduction to Applied Labor Research.”

The day will end with a panel discussion, “New Worker Organizing Outside the NLRB,” on how communities excluded from formal labor protections are building labor movements and worker power. Facilitated by JM Wong (Puget Sound Sage/Massage Parlor Organizing Project), discussants will include Dian Dian (Massage Parlor Organizing Project), Edgar Frank (FamiliasUnidas por la Justicia), CJ Garcia (Fair Work Center), Silvia Gonzalez (Casa Latina), and Madison Zack-Wu (Strippers Are Workers).

The Summer School will take place from 10:00am-4:00pm at the University of Washington Waterfront Activities Center (WAC), 3710 Montlake Blvd NE, Seattle, WA 98195. WAC is easily accessible by public transportation via the University of Washington link light rail stop and paid parking is available.

Questions? Contact the Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies at (206) 543-7946 or hbcls@uw.edu.