So much is happening on the world stage that we all should be forgiven for momentary lapses in which we tune it all out, dreaming of family barbecues, back-to-school preparation, camping trips, and yes, the Labor Day Picnic. Yet, with this event, the traditional kickoff to the political season, right around the corner, I wondered how we are thinking about “our” holiday. So I reached out to some of Oregon’s most powerful and reflective labor leaders. What they shared inspired me to pass their wisdom on to you.
A fundamental truth underlying our movement is that “when we fight for each other, instead of just for ourselves, everyone wins.” That observation from UFCW 555’s President, Dan Clay, led to his reflection that some say “God helps those who help themselves” — bootstrap-style rugged individualism. Instead, he told me, every Labor Day, he is reminded that “God helps those who help each other.” Mutual responsibility, solidarity, and unity in the struggle to improve wages, hours, working conditions, safety, and fairness are the hallmarks of a movement that began in the nineteenth century and continues to this day.
Garth Bachman, Business Manager of IBEW Local 48, agreed. To him, Labor Day occasions the celebration of those who keep our economy moving, who win for labor, and whose victories come from speaking with one voice.
Honoring those who “worked, fought, struggled, sacrificed, and even laid down their lives” for the cause is on the mind of Zack Culver, who leads LiUNA 737 as the Laborers’ Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer. Our working class heroes have, throughout history, pursued workplace justice and that’s the meaning and purpose of Labor Day to him.
Melissa Unger, Executive Director of SEIU Local 503, OPEU, brings that fight into the public arena as well. Reminding us of what is at stake in this “most consequential Presidential election in our lifetimes,” it is labor’s strength in numbers, our popularity among voters, and our shared values that she believes will lead to union growth as well as victory in November 5’s general election.
However one approaches the revered three-day weekend, with its promise of one last time to reflect and recoup, usually with those we treasure most, the reminder that most workers want a union and value what collective action brings to the table is one that never gets old.
So whether you’re boogying to the beat of Dan Kaufman’s country/blues band at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds, lifting a cold one with family and friends, recognizing our allied political leaders, or even pulling duty because you do not have the day off, know that this year, Labor Day marks the beginning of a hopeful, joyful, powerful 64-day march to protect our democracy, celebrate our freedoms, and win one more for the working class.
Solidarity!
Laurie Wimmer is Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Northwest Oregon Labor Council.
