La Crosse, WI — During Labor Day, at marches and rallies, picnics and parades, Workers’ Labor Day is a celebration of working people. And it’s a celebration of the power we have when we come together as a society—the power to take back our country for working people, for American Families.
The Western Wisconsin AFL-C IO is pleased to announce the continuation of a 134-year tradition: the La Crosse Labor Day Parade and Festival will take place this year on Monday, September 1. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at the corner of Gillette and Kane Streets on the north side of La Crosse.
Labor Day in La Crosse kicks off with that parade which spans 10-12 blocks. After the parade, the festivities move to the north end of Copeland Park, with free games for kids (a “fishpond” and piles of sawdust with coins hidden in them). Temporary tattoos will also be available for the little ones. Adults can partake in bingo and several raffles. WWAFLCIO volunteers will have soda, beer, brats, and hot dogs for sale.
“Working people are more united than ever to restore our fundamental freedoms and spark an organizing renaissance that sets our country on a new course. The CEOs and billionaires are scared of us. That’s why they’re attacking us. I’ve got a message for those who are assaulting our rights: You’re right to be scared. Working people are the backbone of this country, and when we join together in solidarity, nothing can stop us.” – AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond
This year’s parade marshal is Ken Nolte. Ken is a trustee and delegate to the Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO. He is a bus driver for the City of La Crosse and a member of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATC) Local 519. Ken’s an active member of his local and in our community.
Labor Day isn’t just a long weekend. It’s a day to celebrate the dignity and power of working people, and a call for each of us to keep imagining and building better futures for our families:
The first Labor Day celebration in the U.S. took place in New York City on Sept. 5, 1882, when some 10,000 workers marched in a parade organized by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor. The first Labor Day parade in La Crosse was held in 1891.
One of the goals of the WWAFLCIO Labor Day event is to provide a family-friendly parade and festival experience for area residents while celebrating and honoring all working people in the Coulee region. Join us for camaraderie and community. Together, let’s raise a glass to working people and toast their collective works.
The Central Labor Council of Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO represents thousands of workers throughout the Coulee Region in diverse sectors. The Council is committed to economic, social, and racial justice and works tirelessly to create a fair and just future for all.
