Strike c. 1936

Emory Ladanyi created this print titled ‘Strike’ in 1933. It reflects the widespread social unrest during the Great Depression. In the print, Ladanyi offers a view into the lives of working-class families, showing them as resilient despite economic hardship. A group of determined figures march forward, holding signs and accompanied by children, their faces reflecting a mix of fatigue and resolve. The artist uses stark contrasts in black and white to convey the grim realities of the time. Ladanyi does more than depict a moment of protest, he acknowledges the emotional weight carried by families during these times. The children's presence underscores the vulnerability of the working class and the stakes of their struggle. This piece humanizes the collective experience of the Depression era, highlighting the intertwined themes of social justice, economic struggle, and the well-being of families.