Queens Campus Honors Triangle Shirtwaist Fire Victims

The Triangle Shirtwaist fire — the worst industrial disaster to occur in New York City in the early 20th century — occurred 100 years ago on March 25, 1911. In a series of events before, during and after the anniversary date this March 25, the Queens c ampus honored the 146 lives lost — most of them young, most of them women. The centenary events identified the labor and safety laws that were enacted as a result of the fire, while not letting us forget that much remains to be done to protect the lives and safety of workers around the world.

Highlights of the University wide events, planned and hosted by Office of the Provost, included a guest lecture by Annelise Orleck, Professor of History, Women’s and Jewish Studies at Dartmouth, who spoke about work-place related challenges facing laborers today; a two-day conference on “The Theology and Dignity of Workers” sponsored by the Center for Labor and Employment Law; and Rev. James Maher, C.M., Vice President for Student Affairs, who charted the progress that has been made in eliminating workplace problems in the apparel industry.

The devastating impact of so much tragic loss of life was forcefully portrayed in three creative events. An art installation, “Bundles,” by Fine Arts Department Assistant Professor Claudia Sbrissa and four student members of NEVAS assembled clothing donated by the campus community into 146 bundles, each tagged with the name and age of one of the fire’s victims. A symbolic candlelight enactment on the steps of D’Angelo Center and a theatrical tribute in the D’Angelo Center including calling of the names of the 146 who died, left a powerful and lasting visual impact on all who witnessed.

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