Union advocacy flourished in the United States during the Gilded Age, providing workers a blueprint for creating change in their industries and lives. Farmers recognized that they, too, could organize to advocate for their needs and potentially bring about positive changes for themselves and their communities. Oklahoma proved uniquely favorable for this form of farm labor activism, and a number of unions were established or flourished in the state. These groups demonstrate the power and potential of community activism and remain an inspiration to all those who desire and aspire towards change.

This Learning Lab collection was created by Annie Franklin, a student in the summer 2022 Smithsonian Digital Learning and Engagement Internship, in collaboration with Emerson Collective and the Oklahoma History Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate based in Oklahoma City, OK. #SAintern