Nurses' Week Special Episode - The Fiery Mary "Mother" Jones

Rachel, Gerri, and Geri take listeners on an unforgettable journey through the life and legacy of Mary “Mother” Jones — the labour organizer once dubbed “the most dangerous woman in America.” From famine-stricken Ireland to the sweatshops and coalfields of the United States, the podcast traces how grief and injustice forged her into a tireless champion for worker safety and dignity.

But this isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a call to action. The episode draws parallels between the brutal conditions Jones fought against and the occupational hazards faced by Alberta nurses today, from violence and burnout to unsafe staffing ratios and systemic neglect.

The legacy of Mary Jones reminds us that the struggle for safe and just workplaces is far from over — and that every nurse who dares to speak out is walking in the footsteps of giants.

This episode was inspired by the OH&S article in the Spring 2025 UNA Bulletin, which highlighted Mary "Mother" Jones—many thanks to UNA OH&S Advisor Dewey Funk for bringing this figure to our attention. 

Please note, the information, opinions, and recommendations expressed by guests and hosts in this Podcast are their own those don’t necessarily reflect the views of Local 196 or United Nurses of Alberta.

If you have enjoyed the content of this podcast or have any suggestions for improvement, please reach out to the local 196 executive at [e-mail] and/or leave a comment.

We can also be reached at https://local196una.ca/