[Excerpt] The struggle to build an independent union in Mexico's huge garment industry began in the aftermath of the 1985 earthquake that devastated Mexico City, killing 1,000 garment workers and leaving 40,000 more unemployed, most of them women. After more than two years, the September 19 Garment Workers Union — which takes its name from the date of the quake — continues its efforts amid deeply altered, and more difficult, circumstances.