On Labor Day, a wave of protests swept across the United States, uniting labor unions, community activists, and concerned citizens under the banner of "Workers Over Billionaires." These demonstrations aimed to highlight the critical role of the working class in national politics, especially in light of increasing influence from the nation's wealthiest individuals. Major cities like Boston, Chicago, and New York witnessed large gatherings as part of this nationwide movement, which is set to include over a thousand events across the country.
While the protests in larger cities attracted significant crowds, smaller towns also participated, showcasing the widespread discontent with the current political landscape. From Scottsdale, Arizona, to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, various organizations that previously organized summer protests, such as No Kings Day and Good Trouble Lives On, played a crucial role in mobilizing communities for Labor Day demonstrations. Although event organizers refrained from releasing official attendance figures, the visible turnout reflected a growing movement against the influence of billionaires in politics.
Demonstrators displayed a variety of handmade signs featuring slogans that criticized the nation’s billionaires, advocated for scientific research, and emphasized the importance of due process and constitutional rights. These rallies served not only as a platform for expressing discontent with President Donald Trump but also as a call to action against the wealthy elites who support his administration. Saqib Bhatti, executive director of the Action Center on Race and the Economy, emphasized the importance of demonstrating opposition to the Trump-billionaire agenda in both large cities and small towns, stating, “It’s not just cities that are united against what’s happening… it’s all towns.”
In New York, several hundred protesters gathered outside Trump Tower, occupying the sidewalk with chants and distributing food. The atmosphere was festive, with a brass band leading chants such as “New York is a working town.” Meanwhile, the White House chose to remain silent on the protests but highlighted President Trump’s commitment to American workers through quotes from Vice President JD Vance and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Labor organizations, including the AFL-CIO and various local advocacy groups, coordinated the events to address local concerns. While some protests began the previous week, many continued throughout the first week of September, maintaining momentum from earlier mass demonstrations.
In Florida’s capital city, Tallahassee, a significant “Workers Over Billionaires” protest took place at the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, demanding fair wages and benefits for workers. Organized by local AFL-CIO chapters, the event attracted a diverse crowd, including politicians and union members. Shari Gewanter, a member of the Leon Classroom Teachers Association, addressed the crowd, celebrating the hard work of all Americans who contribute to the country's greatness.
Protests also occurred in various locations across Florida, including Fort Myers and Vero Beach, where residents expressed their concerns about President Trump’s policies. Activists emphasized that the issue transcends traditional political divisions, framing it as a struggle between the wealthy elite and the working class.
Boston celebrated its first-ever Labor Day Parade, led by local officials, including Mayor Michelle Wu and Governor Maura Healey. The parade highlighted the achievements of unions and aimed to unify participants in their fight for workers' rights. Similarly, in Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson joined demonstrators for a rally that began at the historic Haymarket Memorial, a site significant in labor history.
Demonstrations in South Carolina featured a mix of serious and theatrical elements, including a protester dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit symbolizing political discontent. Events were organized in at least ten South Carolina cities, emphasizing broad local engagement in labor rights issues.
Some protests incorporated family-friendly activities, showcasing the positive contributions of unions. Events like Madison, Wisconsin’s Labor Fest 2025 featured live music, food trucks, and drives to support homeless students. In Shoreline, Washington, organizers included a Back-to-School Drive, highlighting the community’s commitment to supporting local families.
The protests also aimed to highlight specific corporate actors contributing to the political climate. Bhatti pointed out that these events targeted individuals and companies that financially support Trump’s political action committees or directly benefit from his administration's policies. This multifaceted approach underscores the determination of activists to hold accountable those driving an authoritarian agenda.
As these protests continue to gain traction, they not only reflect a growing discontent with the current administration but also serve as a rallying cry for workers across the nation. The movement illustrates a united front that transcends geographical and political boundaries, reinforcing the importance of solidarity among the working class.
