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A popular saying in Alderson went as follows: 'They work…

“A popular saying in Alderson went as follows: 'They work us like a horse, feed us like a bird, treat us like a child, dress us like a man - and then expect us to act like a lady.” quote by Elizabeth Gurley Flynn
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“A popular saying in Alderson went as follows: 'They work us like a horse, feed us like a bird, treat us like a child, dress us like a man - and then expect us to act like a lady.”

Elizabeth Gurley Flynn

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Workers are over‑exploited, under‑nourished, infantilized, and forced into contradictory expectations.

In simple terms: Workers face contradictory treatment and expectations.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for fair, consistent labor standards.

Themes

labor rights gender inequality exploitation

Mood

determined hopeful

Type

activist motivational

When to use this quote

  • factory work
  • union organizing
  • gender roles
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

intersectionality power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What expectations are most contradictory for you?
  • How can you challenge these norms?
A Different Perspective

Changing deep‑rooted social norms is difficult.

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