Women of the Century Database Display
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| Surname | Roche |
|
| Forename/s | Gertie | |
| Other Names | ||
| Dates | (1912- ) |
| Biographical Notes | Born in Leeds. At age 16, Gertie went to work at Montague Burton's clothing factory. Soon after starting work she became involved with the National Union of Tailors and Garment Workers and was shop stewardess for many years. She was active in the Communist Party until being expelled in 1957, then in the CND and the Labour Party. In the early 1950s, she organised a national women's campaign to withdraw British troops from the Korean War and was awarded the Picasso Dove by the National Peace Campaign. Gertie organised women garment workers in Leeds from 1930s to 1970. She played a leading role in the Leeds Garment Workers' Strike of 1970, winning a shilling an hour pay rise. After being dismissed because of her role in the strike, she dedicated herself to working with women in community organisations. Gertie was awarded an honorary fellowship at Leeds Polytechnic in 1992. |
| Sources Used | Northern Star 27.2.1992, 12.3.1992 |
| Further Sources | Armley Museum |
| Associated Places | Leeds |