Baltimore police strike

Baltimore Police officers on strike, 1974

Baltimore police strike

The Baltimore police strike was a significant labor action that took place in Baltimore, Maryland, involving members of the Baltimore Police Department. The strike occurred in 1974 and had a profound impact on the city's law enforcement and labor relations.

Background

In the early 1970s, police officers in Baltimore were increasingly dissatisfied with their working conditions, pay, and benefits. The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), which represented the officers, had been negotiating with the city government for better terms. However, these negotiations were not yielding the desired results, leading to growing frustration among the rank and file.

The Strike

The strike began on July 11, 1974, when a significant number of police officers called in sick, a tactic known as the "blue flu." This action was taken to protest the city's refusal to meet their demands for higher wages and improved working conditions. The strike quickly escalated, with more officers joining in and the city's ability to maintain law and order being severely compromised.

Impact on the City

The absence of a substantial portion of the police force led to a spike in crime and disorder in Baltimore. The city government, led by Mayor William Donald Schaefer, was forced to take drastic measures to address the situation. The Maryland State Police and the National Guard were called in to help maintain order.

Resolution

The strike ended after several days when the city agreed to some of the demands made by the police officers. The resolution included a pay raise and promises to address other grievances. However, the strike left a lasting impact on the relationship between the police force and the city government.

Aftermath

The Baltimore police strike of 1974 highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement officers and the importance of addressing their concerns to maintain public safety. It also underscored the potential consequences of labor disputes within essential public services.

Related Pages

• Baltimore Police Department
• Fraternal Order of Police
• William Donald Schaefer
• Maryland State Police
• National Guard