ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Monday, Delta County celebrated Labor Day with a parade in Escanaba.
Local workers and their families marched and drove through Ludington Street, representing unions like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 876 and United Steelworkers (USW) Local 21.
“We like to show how important labor is to the community,” said USW Local 21 member Jamie Dier. “We just want to thank all of the unions that are walking with us today. It’s very impressive, the amount of solidarity. It’s a very good turnout and we’re just happy to be a part of it.”
“We are the biggest union in town,” said member Björn Van Ginhoven. “I think it’s important for us to show up. Every year is getting better for us with showing solidarity with the trade unions around the area.”
While the children of some union members might be too young to join the workforce, that did not keep them from enthusiastically marching alongside their parents.
“My dad works for [USW Local 21], so I usually get to come in here every year,” said Kennedi.
“Same with my mom,” added Rylan. “She’s a really proud worker, and I thought it would be cool to come and walk.”
The parade led to the Municipal Dock, where a large crowd enjoyed live music, food, raffles, the annual Golf Ball Drop, and other activities into the evening. Attendees could also donate school supplies to the Michigan Education Association, which represents teachers throughout the state.
