In 1990, a major conflict began at Ravenswood Aluminum in Jackson County when workers were locked out after contract talks failed. The United Steelworkers Union Local 5668 said the company was putting profits over safety, especially after four workers had died. The company used replacement workers, and the town divided, with protests and violence.

The union fought back with rallies and even international protests. After 20 months, an agreement was reached in 1992, and workers returned.