August 21, 2018

President Barack Obama shared some stirring words about organized labor in his 2016 Labor Day message to America's workers.

"History shows that working families can get a fair shot in this country - but only if we are willing to organize and fight for it," Obama wrote in an "Open Letter to America's Hardworking Men and Women," issued Sept. 4, 2016.

"As I've said before, if I were looking for a good job that lets me build some security for my family, I'd join a union," Obama wrote. "If I saw a problem in my workplace, I'd organize my coworkers to do something about it. Especially because today, more workers than ever need a stronger voice."

Labor Day is a celebration of organized labor, a day to spotlight America’s working families. It’s a day to look back, to pay tribute to those who have fought and struggled for better, safer working conditions and fair pay. It’s also a day to look forward, to stand up and speak out for positive change, and to continue fighting those who strive to destroy unions.

On Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 3), UUPers from across the state will march in Labor Day parades and take part in Labor Day picnics. Events are slated in Albany, Buffalo, Massena, and Syracuse.

In Albany, the Michael L. Burns Capital District Labor Parade will be held Friday, Sept. 7; a picnic will follow, with fireworks at dusk. The New York City Labor Day parade is set for Saturday, Sept. 8.

All events are free. Show your union pride by marching in a Labor Day parade or taking part in a Labor Day picnic. Details on the events is below:

Albany

Albany Labor Day Solidarity Picnic: Noon, Labor Day.
Location: Cook Park (Shambrook Parkway), Colonie
Potluck picnic with awards, speeches, silent auction and music.
Contact: The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District

Capital District Labor Day Parade and Celebration: 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 7
Location: Parade steps off at Academy Park (across from state Capitol), Albany
After-parade activities at Corning Preserve include a picnic, live music, kids’ activities and fireworks at dusk.
Contact: Albany County Central Federation of Labor

Buffalo

Labor Day parade and picnic: Noon, Labor Day
Location: Parade starts at Buffalo Irish Center, 245 Abbott Road, Buffalo.
The theme of the parade is "Union Strong." The parade will proceed down Abbott Road and end in Cazenovia Park, where a Labor Day picnic will be held.
Contact: Buffalo Central Labor Council; 716-852-0375

Massena

38th annual Solidarity Day Labor Day Parade: 11 a.m., Labor Day
Location: Center and Willow streets, Massena
After the parade, there’s a picnic in Springs Park.
Contact: Amy Simmons, 315-783-7555

New York City

New York City Labor Day Parade: 10 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 8.
The theme of the parade is "NYC is a Union Town." Participating UUP members should meet at 44th Street and Fifth Avenue. March time is 10:15 a.m.
Click here for more information.

Syracuse

Greater Syracuse Labor Council Labor Day Parade: 10:30 a.m., Labor Day
Location: Gate 4 (Iroquois/ Indian Village), New York State Fair, Syracuse
The theme of the parade is "Union Strong." A rally follows the parade at Chevy Court. Free fair admission for union members.
Greater Syracuse Labor Council; 315-422-3363