Labor Day parade, festival celebrate workers in Philadelphia

Thousands of union members, their families and supporters gathered in South Philadelphia for the Tri-State Labor Day Parade and Family Festival on Monday.

The day began with a parade down Columbus Boulevard honoring local workers before festivities continued at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 Union Hall.

The event, hosted by the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, celebrated organized labor and its role in the region.

"Everybody in the world knows Philadelphia is a labor town and this is our day to really show solidarity and prove it," said Jim Snell of Steamfitters Local 420.

The festival brought together union members, community partners and elected officials, including Philadelphia City Councilmember Jim Harrity, who spoke about his labor background.

"Well, I'm a 23-year member of the Laborers Local 57. I actually dug holes for a living for a long time. A lot of politicians say they're with a union. I'm actually with a union," Harrity said.

Families also participated in the celebration, highlighting the event's community focus.

"I love 401 because my dad works here," one child said.

Organizers said the event was designed to recognize the contributions of workers throughout the region.

"It feels good to be celebrated and to be recognized for the work we do around the city so it feels good," said Ray Nixon of Local 19 Sheetmetal Workers.

The festivities continued throughout the day as labor organizations and their supporters gathered to celebrate workers and the labor movement in Philadelphia.