Howat answers President John L. Lewis, circa 1925
In this cirrus of Howat’s critique of Lewis’s ideas, the main words are “conditions,” “workers,” “district,” and “Lewis.” It is important to note that “conditions” is one of the most used words, because most communication surround the conditions of a place, whether they are physical or rules, was usually kept within a very small circle or those complaining could lose their jobs. Of course, risk communication* was common among miners, because of the dangerous physical conditions they endured and because of the stress that the unions caused (Caccia 165). Howat’s open rejection of the new conditions that the mining companies wanted to place on the workers also shows just how radical his political views are as he does not want to compromise on the issue. The fact that he printed his opinions and distributed it for all to see, instead of just giving a speech, showed how he was not afraid of repercussion and wanted his opinion to be noticed. Printing his reply also gives it a sort of legitimacy that a speech could not, as he it would be more difficult for him to backtrack his written word and others would have a harder time distorting his words. This openness was good for the laborers as one of their main issues is that they are often pushed aside and told be quiet (Articulating 287). Howat’s bold move could have inspired others to be as vocal with their opinions.
*“Risk communication is the distribution of information about risk conditions in the workplace" (Caccia 166).
