Bethlehem Steelworkers and the Restructuring of an Industrial Working Class: An Author Talk with Dr. Jill Schennum

Join us for a captivating author talk with Dr. Jill Schennum, as she discusses her new book “As Goes Bethlehem: Steelworkers and the Restructuring of an Industrial Working Class.” This powerful work delves into the profound changes experienced by steelworkers in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, following the bankruptcy and eventual closure of the iconic Bethlehem Steel Corporation.

Through in-depth interviews and personal narratives, Schennum paints a vivid picture of the steelworkers’ lives, exploring the significance of industrial work in defining their identities, social relations, and sense of worth. Her research sheds light on the far-reaching impact of deindustrialization, the decline of unions, and the shift to a post-industrial economy on the lives of American workers.

As a cultural anthropologist, Schennum brings a unique perspective to this transformative story, uncovering the complex issues of race, ethnicity, gender, and regional divides that have shaped the trajectory of the industrial working class. Her insights challenge dominant interpretations of blue-collar workers, offering a nuanced understanding of their experiences and the broader societal shifts that have reshaped the American dream.

Join us on Sunday, September 22nd at 2pm in the Hughes Library Community Room for this compelling author talk. Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is requested. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 316 to register. Engage in a thought-provoking discussion and gain a deeper understanding of the human stories behind the restructuring of industrial America.