In 1974, John Pitman Weber and Jose Guerrero painted the two-story mural, “Solidarity,” in the interior stairwell of the United Electrical (UE) Workers Union Hall at 37 S. Ashland Avenue in Chicago. This is one of the oldest murals in Chicago. It is also the first – and possibly the only – mural that portrays union history.
The acrylic on plaster mural has important historical, artistic, cultural, and social significance for both Chicago and the nation. “Solidarity” was a labor of passion and love. Weber and Guerrero were not paid for their work. They undertook the project, inspired by their personal beliefs in the dignity of labor and the importance of that struggle. The UE provided a canvas that amplified those ideals. The organization’s mission of militant progressivism aligned perfectly with the artists’ values and their vision for the future.
Weber and Guerrero visited factories and studied the union’s history to create scenes that would be meaningful to both staff and visitors. Many of the employees who played prominent roles in the union’s activities are depicted.
The UE is selling the building that has been its home since 1947. CPAG is working with partners to preserve this historic and culturally significant mural.
If you’re interested in supporting the preservation of “Solidarity,” please visit this link: https://chicagopublicartgroup.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/chicagopublicartgroup/donation.jsp?campaign=4&&test=true
