After eight failed negotiating sessions and the expiration of their labor contract, Mexican-American workers at the nearby Empire Zinc mine struck for wage and benefit equality. When an injunction prohibited union members from picketing, the women—wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters—took their places on the line. They persevered despite life-threatening situations, violence, incarceration, and tension at home. Their determination made national news and resulted in the popular documentary film, Salt of the Earth. In solidarity, they endured until the strike ended and won recognition as well as respect.