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Official statements, strike updates, collective bargaining dispatches, and public policy alerts from the West Virginia AFL-CIO communications bureau.
As West Virginians enjoy spending time with family and friends this Labor Day weekend, the West Virginia AFL-CIO invites residents to join one of our union-sponsored events to honor the workers who built this country.
“Labor Day is a celebration of worker power and all that we can accomplish together when we stand together in solidarity,” WV AFL-CIO President Josh Sword said. “From parades and picnics to rallies and community events, union members are coming together across the state and country to celebrate working people – and Labor Day is better when we celebrate together.”
As West Virginians enjoy spending time with family and friends this Labor Day weekend, the West Virginia AFL-CIO invites residents to join one of our union-sponsored events to honor the workers who built this country.
“Labor Day is a celebration of worker power and all that we can accomplish together when we stand together in solidarity,” WV AFL-CIO President Josh Sword said. “From parades and picnics to rallies and community events, union members are coming together across the state and country to celebrate working people – and Labor Day is better when we celebrate together.”
WV AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Andy Walters noted that union members across the country are mobilizing to elect pro-worker candidates who will stand with us, not billionaires, CEOs and the ultra-wealthy.
“The tradition of Labor Day started because workers organized for dignity, fair pay and a voice on the job,” Walters said. “Today we honor the people whose work keeps this country moving.”
The following are union-sponsored Labor Day events taking place this weekend:
Marion County AFL-CIO, UMWA, & Marion County Democrats
Labor Day Celebration and Picnic
Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026, noon to 4 p.m.
Hough Park, Mannington WV
Special Guest: UMWA International President Emeritus Cecil Roberts
Free food, ice cream & soft drinks. Prizes. Bring your lawn chair!
Contact: Mark Dorsey, 304-777-7642,
Paden City Labor Day Parade – Marshall-Wetzel-Tyler, AFL-CIO, a participant
Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, 1 p.m. (noon lineup at South End of town)
Free live concerts, local food and beverage trucks, games, and rides
Contact: BB Smith, 304-545-7781,
*Note: Additional entertainment will be provided Saturday through Monday starting at 2 p.m. each day at Paden City Park.
Marmet City Labor Day Parade – Kanawha Valley Labor Council, AFL-CIO, a participant
Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, at 10 a.m. Meet 9:15 a.m. at old Woody’s Goodies Store location
Wear your union apparel and bring your union banners!
Contact: Elaine Harris, 304-541-7293,
United Mine Workers of America 88th Annual Labor Day Celebration & Picnic
Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, at 11 a.m.
John Slack Memorial Park, Racine, WV
Pig roast, live entertainment, speakers, activities for the kids, cash drawing
Contact: Brian Lacy, 304-541-3948
"When working men and women stand united across our valleys and hollows, there is no legislative hurdle we cannot overcome and no picket line we cannot hold."
Josh Sword
President, West Virginia AFL-CIO
