As Labor Day rallies took place across the United States, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vehemently criticized the Trump administration’s potential deployment of federal troops to Chicago as part of an immigration crackdown. Speaking to a crowd gathered at the “Workers Over Billionaires” demonstration in Chicago’s West Loop, Johnson declared, “No federal troops in the city of Chicago.” He emphasized the importance of defending democracy and protecting the humanity of every individual in the city.
The rally in Chicago was one of hundreds of protests organized nationwide under the banner of the “Workers Over Billionaires” campaign. This mass action aims to demand freedom, fairness, and security for workers, alongside advocating for the right to unionize. Demonstrations occurred in major cities such as New York, Houston, Washington DC, and Los Angeles. Smaller cities like Cleveland, Ohio, and Greensboro, North Carolina, also participated, showcasing solidarity in the fight for workers' rights.
The May Day Strong group, a coalition of labor unions, spearheaded Monday’s efforts in collaboration with the AFL-CIO, the largest federation of unions in the United States, and One Fair Wage, a non-profit organization advocating for fair wages for restaurant workers. Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing, stating, “This is about organic, grassroots organizing, and we intentionally wanted it to be outside of Washington DC, because that’s where the impacts are being felt.”
In New York City, hundreds gathered outside Trump Tower in the Midtown district, as reported by USA Today. Additional protests unfolded throughout the state, including in Albany, where US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand made an appearance. At the Albany demonstration, Gillibrand remarked, “It’s Labor Day and we want to celebrate working men and people in this community.” She further highlighted the significance of the labor movement in building the middle class in New York, stressing the need to recognize the contributions of working individuals to the community and the nation.
In the Los Angeles area, thousands participated in a Labor Day rally that culminated in a community picnic featuring live entertainment. Local affiliate KTLA reported on the enthusiastic turnout, which underscored the community’s commitment to workers’ rights and the ongoing efforts to secure justice and fair treatment for all laborers.
This Labor Day, the united voice of workers across the nation resonated strongly, as demonstrations highlighted the critical issues facing laborers and the ongoing struggle for rights and recognition in the workplace.
