Inflatable rats, Union rats, or Scabby rats, are giant inflatables in the shape of cartoon rats, commonly used in the United States by protesting or striking trade unions.

Dec 18, 2020 · The story of the rat dates back to the late 1980s with a guy named Jim Sweeney. He's a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, the local just outside Chicago.

Feb 26, 2025 · Sometimes they’ll bring a special guest—a giant inflatable rat with sharp, menacing buckteeth and claws, beady red eyes and a belly scattered with festering blemishes …

Jul 22, 2021 · For decades, the balloon rodent, affectionately known as "Scabby" by labor groups, has been a common fixture at worksites and at union protests, with its snarling fangs and scab …

NEW YORK (AP) — For decades, a giant, inflatable rat with beady eyes, sharp teeth and a pustule-covered belly has loomed over union protests, drawing attention to various labor …

Aug 6, 2021 · Created in 1991 in plainfield, illinois, the oversized inflatable rat was designed to aid striking chicago union workers call attention to their plight. the rat is said to symbolize non …

Jul 12, 2017 · For over 40 years, NYC unions have used rats as a symbol of protest. Workers who used to replace union workers during a labor strike were historically called “rats” or “scabs,” …

Aug 6, 2021 · Scabby The Rat Wins Free Speech Rights As A Symbol Of Labor Protest The 12-foot-tall inflatable called "Scabby" has been used for decades as a symbol in union disputes. …

Sep 1, 2022 · This monstrous rodent is known as Scabby the Rat, and his fearsome visage is beloved by union workers not only in New York, but across the country. Over the last thirty …

Dec 1, 2003 · Dissecting the inflatable union rat. You’ve seen it around: a giant creature with menacing buckteeth, long claws, and red, beady eyes. It’s a regular at union protests and …