Politicians, members and supporters of the local labor community gathered Monday morning to celebrate the Labor Day holiday.
President of the Rochester Area Labor Federation Dan Maloney mentioned many of the challenges still to come, but also some of the recent wins, including an increase in minimum wage and the paid family medical leave act.
Rochester Building and Constructions Trades President Dave Young focused on the importance of honoring those who have worked to get the conditions that many may not think twice about.
"In this day and age when so many people just assume that this is how life is supposed to be. That we have of these privileges and protections from the people that came before us. I am always reminded what we have to do to maintain these rights."
Communication Workers of America Local 1170 President John Pusloskie mentioned the Verizon strike that happened earlier this year.
"It is not without discomfort when somebody goes on strike, and does not have a paycheck for 45 days, that their will is not tested. But it does show that when the communities and the workers in their communities stand together, they can help protect for future workers."
Monique Mate is a postal worker and marched in the Labor Day parade. She said the future of unions is in the younger workers.
“If we can get the young people on board to realize how important the unions are. It’s us who have to teach the younger generations."
The annual Labor Day Parade followed the speakers, marching down East Avenue.