WNYLaborToday.com Editor’s Note: Pictured above, a snapshot of photos from Monday’s (September 2nd) annual Buffalo Labor Day Parade, which featured a number of Private, Public and Building Trades Unions participating in a celebration of the gains brought about by Working People.  (For more photos from the Labor Day Parade, visit WNYLaborToday.com’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/wnylt)    

(BUFFALO, NEW YORK) – Taking time to celebrate the many gains brought about by Working People at the annual Buffalo Labor Day Parade, Leaders of the Buffalo AFL-CIO Central Labor Council and the Western New York AFL-CIO Area Labor Federation told WNYLaborToday.com they are both bullish and optimistic on what’s coming for Organized Labor during the rest of 2024 and beyond.

Buffalo Labor Council President Denise Abbott of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1168 said: “There is ‘nothing but solidarity up and down these streets’ (of South Buffalo where the parade took place).  Labor ‘is in a very good’ position.  We have a ‘very strong’ Buffalo Council.  ‘There’s a lot of action going on (with work actions and such) and our commitment to this community has always been strong.’”

Asked what her thoughts were regarding the upcoming Presidential Election in November and into 2025, Abbott answered: “There’s ‘a lot at stake in this election and Labor has the power to turn this election into a positive, but we all have to come out and vote.’  ‘What I envision in the months to come is a Labor Movement that is stronger.’  ‘That is louder.’  ‘That is prouder.’  Worker actions ‘are just going through the roof.’”

Western New York Area Labor Federation President Peter DeJesus, Jr. told WNYLaborToday.com that Labor Day “‘fills my heart seeing all these different Unions, their hard work and all that they have built.’”

“The Western New York Labor Movement ‘is stronger than ever’,” he continued.  “And ‘we will continue to bond with the community.’  This election ‘is huge for us.’  ‘It’s really simple – it’s an opportunity for us to move forward and we are not going backwards.’  ‘It’s a decision that comes down to an individual who will work with Labor (Democratic Candidate and current Vice President Kamala Harris) instead of a dictatorship’ (under former President and Republican/MAGA Candidate Donald Trump).’”

In terms of what he sees for the future, DeJesus said: “I ‘see a lot of energy and enthusiasm’ (across the Labor Movement).  ‘I can really see it and feel it - it’s real.’  ‘People are just tired of all the negativity’ (spouted by Trump).  ‘And they are tired of his racism and sexism - just tired.’”

The Western New York Area Labor Federation put out the following message from President DeJesus on Social Media: On this Labor Day, a day of profound significance, we pause to honor the backbone of our Nation: Our Workers.  Labor Day is not just a holiday.  It is a powerful reminder of the immense contributions and sacrifices made by Workers who build, create and drive our communities forward.  Labor is not merely a means to an end.  It is the very fabric that binds our society together.  Our diverse workforce, from Educators and Health Care Professionals to Building Trades, Manufacturers and Public Service Workers, are the force that keeps our economy thriving and our communities vibrant.  Their sweat, skill and dedication fuel progress and innovation.  As we celebrate today, let's not lose sight of the true significance of this day.  It's a call to action, a reminder to uphold the value of hard work, fair wages, safe working conditions and the right to organize and advocate for better futures.  Labor Day is a beacon, reminding us that the struggle for dignity, respect and justice for every Worker is a continuous one that we must keep fighting for.  Let’s take a moment to honor the strength and resilience of all Workers.  To all those who have poured their time, effort and passion into building our Nation, we extend our heartfelt thanks.  Your labor is not just necessary, it's cherished and celebrated.  You are the foundation of our Nation's prosperity - and we are proud to stand with you.  Happy Labor Day!

The Buffalo Labor Day Parade ended at Cazenovia Park, where a picnic was held for all who participated, including live music and food - traditional grilled hot dogs and hamburgers.

The picnic was sponsored by Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York.