Union Workers Parade on Labor Day in Wilmington Amid Concerns

Thousands of union workers, their families, and supporters paraded through Wilmington’s streets on Labor Day. The parade had a festive atmosphere, yet workers voiced serious concerns about the future of their jobs. Jesse Munoz, a 63-year-old longshoreman from the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 13, highlighted the loss of over 2,000 jobs due to automation over the past 15 years. Munoz also worried that foreign-owned companies might reduce the workforce further and worsen working conditions.

Munoz stated, “The concern is the future. My son is on a list to become a casual worker. He hopes to become a regular union member, but the future is uncertain.” He added, “If you eliminate the workforce, you eliminate taxes and pensions.”

Across the nation, Labor Day presents a key opportunity for political candidates during midterm elections. The holiday first celebrated in New York City on September 5, 1882, became a legal holiday in 1894 signed by President Cleveland. In Southern California, where the labor movement remains influential, Labor Day holds special significance. Nationwide, union representation increased by 463,000 in 2025, with national unionization edging up to 10.0%. However, private-sector union density remained at 5.9%.

Munoz also directed a message to President Trump. He criticized tariffs on foreign-made goods, advocating for an end to tariffs and automation to get people back to work, emphasizing the role of workers in building the economy.

The parade featured participation from numerous school bands and union delegations along with a display of restored cars. L.A. Mayor Karen Bass led the shore workers, underlining the city’s strong ties to labor. At the pre-parade breakfast, politicians like Xavier Becerra, running for California governor, thanked union members while candidates for L.A. Mayor, Bass and Nithya Raman, addressed the crowd.

Mayor Bass praised the positive strides made despite challenges, emphasizing Los Angeles as a labor city with strong union backing. While Raman received endorsement from the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters, she warned about automation and AI’s impact on jobs and pledged support for workers.

Joseph W., a master carpenter, expressed concerns over housing affordability, noting how home prices have surged beyond workers’ earnings. Young workers from ILWU Local 56, like Evan Briseno and Francisco, also discussed workplace safety and job aspirations, highlighting the potential health risks in their trade.

Other unions such as the Teamsters, Service Employees International, SAG-AFTRA, and teachers participated in the parade. Mark Ramos, chair of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party and president of the UFCW Local 1428, mentioned a union battle over managing self-serve checkout lines in stores.