30th annual Labor Day Parade held in Ishpeming

ISHPEMING — Labor Day parades and festivals took place all across the country today, and Ishpeming was no exception.

This afternoon Ishpeming’s 30th annual Labor Day Parade and Festival took place in Lake Bancroft Park. The parade began at 11:00 a.m. and was immediately followed by a picnic including food, beverages, games, speakers, and much more for the community to enjoy.

“It was a fun parade,” said young parade attendee Samuel Leclair. “There were a lot of fun things and lots of candy, and the cars were cool. It was a good parade.”

However the event was for more than just entertaining the community. Those in labor unions view this parade as an opportunity every year to celebrate the history and achievements of local unions, as well as share what unions have done with the community.

“Well it’s good for everyone to remember the history,” said Tony Ghiringhelli, Chairman of the Labor Day Festival. “There was bloodshed to get to the point we’re at today from back in the early days. It’s remembrance more than just a three–day weekend anymore, and we should remember what we gave up to get to this point.”

“It’s just a way we can all get together and celebrate our hard accomplishments and what we’ve done for the labor movement and improving workers’ rights and benefits for everybody,” said Michael Gronez of United Steelworkers Local 4950. “It’s a very good event, very family–oriented. It’s a nice day to be out and be with your fellow union brothers and sisters.”

Those in charge of organizing the Labor Day Parade and Festival say it’s growing every year, and that it is an important event to educate the community and how much unions have done for workers in the area.