Bloomington Labor Day Parade marches September 1 - Union Rights are Civil Rights

Bloomington’s Labor Day Parade will march Monday, September 1, at 10 a.m.  This year’s theme is “Union Rights are Civil Rights.”

The annual parade features union marching unions, Illinois State University’s “Big Red Marching Machine,” high school bands, community organizations, and local elected officials. It is sponsored by the Bloomington & Normal Trades & Labor Assembly (AFL-CIO).

“Union rights are civil rights means that a union is more than just a protective organization for its members,” said Jason Pascal, Bloomington & Normal Trades & Labor Assembly President. “When workers win rights to a safe workplace, no discrimination, and a decent living standard, it uplifts our entire society and all working people.  Human rights include everyone’s rights on the job to a safe and decent workplace, and that translates into a nation we can all participate in and feel proud of.”

“We are especially proud of the Illinois State University tenured faculty for winning their first contract, along with local Barnes & Noble store workers and the Normal College Hills Starbucks for union organizing.”

The parade will assemble on Front Street in downtown Bloomington and proceed south on Lee Street to Wood Street, ending at Miller Park.

Contact paradeblono@gmail.com for parade registration information.

The Bloomington & Normal Trades & Labor Assembly was formed in the 1880s to bring local unions together for the common good.  It has over 30 affiliated local unions and includes worker organizations from McLean, Livingston, DeWitt and Logan counties.  It is affiliated with the Illinois AFL-CIO and the national AFL-CIO.