Labor Day Parade in Wilmington to Honor Unions and Chicano Moratorium Anniversary

Labor Day celebrations are set to take center stage in Wilmington this weekend, with the LA Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition hosting its 46th annual Labor Day Parade, picnic, and rally. The event, themed "Labor Unions Fighting for a Better Tomorrow," aims to honor the history of the labor movement in the United States and highlight ongoing challenges faced by organized labor.

The festivities kick off with a press conference at 8 AM on Monday at the intersection of Broad and E, marking the start of the parade led by Larry Barragan, chair of the coalition. Notable leaders, including Liz Schuler, president of the national AFL-CIO, and Yvonne Wheeler, president of the LA County Federation, will be in attendance, showcasing a strong presence from labor organizations at all levels.

The parade is expected to draw tens of thousands of participants, making it one of the largest in recent years. Following the parade, attendees will gather at Banning Park for a family-friendly rally featuring speeches from labor leaders and elected officials. The event is free and encourages community participation, with a special invitation for families to bring children and enjoy the day.

In a related discussion, council members also recognized the 55th anniversary of the Chicano Moratorium, a pivotal protest against the Vietnam War that highlighted the disproportionate impact on Mexican Americans. This historical reflection underscores the ongoing fight for equality and justice within the labor movement and beyond.

As Labor Day approaches, the city is poised to celebrate not only the contributions of workers but also the enduring spirit of activism that continues to shape the community.