ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Monday, communities across the Upper Peninsula gathered to celebrate Labor Day.
Delta County laborers marched in the annual parade through Downtown Escanaba. Spectators lined Ludington Street to collect candy and show their support for local unions.
Unions represented included biolermakers, educators, ironworkers, steelworkers, and electrical workers. Kyle Bower, a member of Plumbers, Pipefitters & HVAC/R Local 111, says he hopes the parade reminded people of the importance of organized labor.
“We have probably around 400 members, I think, including the retirees,” he said. “We’ve got to look out for what we’ve got. People died for our right to organize, and it’s very important that we keep up the tradition. Stand up for yourself in your workplace.”
The celebration continues all evening long with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities at the Municipal Dock. Click here for full details.