Union Organizers
Two of the most outspoken supporters of Joe Hill during the months leading to his execution were Elizabeth Gurley Flynn (center) and William D. "Big Bill" Haywood (far right).
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(Courtesy: Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs,
Wayne State University)
Flynn was a fiery orator and determined organizer for the Industrial Workers of the World, who met Hill after his murder conviction. Flynn and Hill developed a deep, though short-lived, relationship through the exchange of numerous letters while he was on death row. Haywood, born in the mining camp of Bingham, Utah, urged Hill to appeal his case to the U.S. Supreme Court. Hill told Haywood not to waste the money. On the eve of his execution, Hill telegraphed Haywood a goodbye message, urging him to move on: "Don't waste time mourning -- Organize!"
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