Past Labour Day parade in Sarnia. (submitted photo)Past Labour Day parade in Sarnia. (submitted photo)
Sarnia

Popular Sarnia Labour Day parade to attract thousands

A popular tradition in Sarnia is marking 122 years this weekend.

The annual Labour Day parade will make its way through the city's downtown on Monday, September 2.

Sarnia and District Labour Council spokesperson Arlene Patterson said it's a great event to bring everyone together and support hard working men and women.

"It's one of the largest in Ontario and, I would even dare to guess, it might be the second largest in all of Canada," said Patterson. "We have approximately 3,400 people going through the eye of the needle, starting at Christina and Wellington Streets."

Patterson said this year's theme is Organizing For Power.

"You're looking at the concept that for workers to win changes, we need to get a lot better at talking to and organizing with the rank-and-file members and workers," she said. "That includes engaging the rank-and-file workers to take ownership on issues, and about strategy that was espoused by labour organizer Jane McAlevey who recently died. This is through the CUPE national union."

Patterson said ongoing construction at Wellington and Vidal Streets has prompted a bit of a change for this year.

"The gathering for the parade has had to move towards Front Street," said Patterson. "I would just caution people to bring their patience this year because without that Vidal and Queen Street area, it really cuts off access for folks. They'll have to arrive early, bring their patience, and let's enjoy the day. The weather is supposed to be good."

The parade gets underway at 9:30 a.m.

The floats will head up Front Street, from Wellington Street to Centennial Park.

Afterwards, most unions will have their members back at their respective halls for lunch.

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