MILTON, ON – Halton families are invited to celebrate local workers and spend time together at a free Labour Day event next month.
The Oakville and District Labour Council will host its third annual Labour Day celebration Monday, Sept. 7, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Milton Sports Park.
The community event will feature food, face painting, inflatables, games, a DJ, entertainment and information booths representing local unions and community organizations.
“First and foremost, it’s a great family day,” organizer Jerome Adamo said. “People can come out, enjoy some food, enjoy the activities and entertainment, meet the neighbours and just spend some time together.”
The celebration is open to everyone, regardless of whether they belong to a union.
“What makes this event special is that you don’t have to be a union member to come,” Adamo said. “It’s really just a community event.”
Organizers created the annual gathering three years ago to give Halton residents a Labour Day event closer to home. Adamo said the celebration has continued to grow while maintaining its focus on families, workers and the local community.
The event will also recognize the history of the labour movement and the workplace protections secured by generations of workers.
Adamo pointed to improvements such as reasonable working hours, vacation time, health and safety standards and the right for employees to have a voice in the workplace.
“Labour Day isn’t just about having a Monday off,” Adamo said. “It’s about remembering that history, recognizing the people who fought for those protections and still do, while celebrating the people who go to work every day and keep our communities moving.”
Union representatives, teachers, health-care advocates and other local organizations will be available to speak with visitors and provide information about issues affecting workers and their families.
The celebration will also raise money in support of United Way Golden Horseshoe.
“Bring your family, bring your friends, come celebrate working people in solidarity, and we hope to see you there,” Adamo said.
The third annual Labour Day celebration takes place Sept. 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Milton Sports Park.
Admission is free.
