Employers, the federal and Manitoba governments, the Mayor of Winnipeg and "concerned citizens" reacted angrily and aggressively against the Winnipeg General Strike. Many claimed the strike was driven by the One Big Union, Bolsheviks and European immigrants. It was not; however, the combined force of the groups who opposed the strike was enough to deal a devastating blow to both the strike and the labour movement in general.
"Special policeman"
armed with club

Extract from an open letter by the Mayor of Winnipeg, Manitoba Free Press, June 23, 1919.

Any foreigners who make any threats of any kind or in any way intimidate or worry would-be workers in the slightest degree can expect immediate deportation to Russia or wherever they come from. We intend to purge the city of any lawless element and prosecute to the full rigour of the law. On the other hand, all law-abiding citizens can feel free to go about their business in the full realization that British law will protect them to the limit. No further open-air meetings, either in parks, streets or public places, will be permitted until further notice.

GOD SAVE THE KING!
Charles F. Gray, Mayor


Link to the Social Progress Gallery