Labor Day 2011
Friday, September 09, 2011

This year, the Indy Labor Day Parade/Solidarity March proved again to be well worth the time and energy it takes to ensure a positive experience for all involved.
 
Despite the weather being a touch on the warm side, Saturday’s event was beyond excellent as ZID and IND members and their families congregated in downtown Indianapolis for their sixth straight year of participation. Joining in the festivities were NATCA President Paul Rinaldi and EVP Trish Gilbert, who walked with membership in the procession alongside the ZID/IND float. 

The crowd along the route seemed larger than previous years, with the title of the event being changed from "parade" to "solidarity march." The Indiana AFL-CIO handed out signs, stating such phrases as “We Are Indiana” and “Save the Middle Class,” for marchers to carry along the route.
 
“I wish to thank all those who were among NATCA's record turnout of nearly 100 strong,” said ZID FacRep Tom Thompson of the event. “Most importantly, I wish to thank those in our local who helped make this a great day. From those who arrived early to help decorate to those who stayed late to help put everything away, and especially to those who worked so others could participate, thank you!”
 

Above: Indianapolis-area members gather downtown for the annual Labor Day celebration.

Off to the east, New England NATCA members and their families were joining forces, as well, as they participated in the Milford Labor Day Parade for their fifth year in a row.

Alongside NATCA President Paul Rinaldi and EVP Trish Gilbert, who had traveled straight from the Indianapolis holiday festivities, and New England RVP Mike Robicheau, NATCA members stood tall as the only labor organization to participate in this year’s parade. The impact was overwhelming as our attendance consisted of approximately 65 members from across four different states: Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Gathering together in Milford, N.H., our union family walked down Main Street, passing out NATCA wooden airplanes, foam balls and Frisbees to those in the crowd.  

Prior to walking the parade route, the New England members were even greeted by New Hampshire Governor John Lynch, who stopped by to say hello and thank our members for all they do, and also had the opportunity to speak briefly with Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D- N.H. Following the parade, members wrapped up the successful Labor Day celebration with good food and fellowship at a catered barbeque!

 

Above: New England Region participants pose for a picture with Gov. Lynch (middle) in Milford.

To view NATCA's Labor Day photo archive, visit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/50541310@N03/sets/72157627493425537