On the southside of Chicago is the storied neighborhood of Pullman.  It was established by railroad car builder George Pullman in the 1880s as his company town for his factory.

During a pivotal labor battle in 1894, Pullman became a testing ground for worker rights, as the U.S. Government was used to suppress the Pullman strike and boycott.

In the 1930s, African-American Pullman sleeping car porters successfully organized a union.  In February 2015, President Barack Obama designated Pullman a National Historic Site, with a park to be  developed.

National Geographic is running a nationwide competition through June 5 to “pick your favorite National Park.”  Pullman is one of 20 contenders for almost $2 million in possible grants.  The funds will be awarded based on popular support on their website.  Participants can vote daily through July 5.

Go to http://www.voteyourpark.org/pullman and register with an e-mail or through facebook.  Then remember daily to vote to help fund this vital labor history story.