2010 Labor Day Events

Samuel Gompers, head of the American Federation of Labor at the time, called the day a time for workers to become stronger by laying down their tools and marching shoulder-to-shoulder in parades demonstrating the strength and solidarity of the trade union movement. The parades were to be followed by celebrations for the workers and their families.

Although we’re not quite up to organizing a full-fledged parade, America in Solidarity and the Labor Council are preserving the tradition of Labor Day by hosting the 6th annual Labor Day picnic from noon to 4 p.m. at Wright Park.

Bring your family members and join us for a free barbecue and an afternoon of live entertainment by David Rovics and other spoken word artists, activities for kids, and the highlight of the afternoon: the annual tug-o-war contest. Your Local could be the one to take home the bragging rights this year! Put together a team from your Union members -- no experience necessary – join up with a mixed team or just cheer for your favorite.

There will be a walking tour of Tacoma’s labor history sites toward the end of the afternoon if enough people are interested. Your tour guide will be Brian Kamens, former Delegate to the Labor Council and one of the major contributors to the newly published “Tacoma Labor Landmark Tour” brochure, which will be available at the picnic.

You may also be interested in attending the annual memorial service honoring the life and accomplishments of longtime labor activist, poet, and songwriter, Ralph Chaplin, in a short ceremony to be held at 10:30 a.m. at Calvary Cemetery, in Tacoma. Among his many contributions to the labor movement is the writing of the words to "Solidarity Forever," the national anthem for organized labor.

The attached flyers have additional information on both of these events. Contact the Labor Council office at (253) 473-3810 if you need any other information.