---

Michigan AFL-CIO: Thousands to March in Detroit Labor Day Parade

1 September 1999

Michigan AFL-CIO: Thousands to March in Detroit Labor Day Parade

    DETROIT, Sept. 1 -- Thousands of Michigan union members,
their families and friends will march through downtown Detroit in the
traditional Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 6.
    The parade ribboncutting will be at 10 a.m. at Woodward and Mack.  There
are two lines of march: one starting at 10 a.m. down Woodward from Mack, and a
second traveling down Michigan Avenue from Trumbull starting at 10:30 a.m.
Members of the Teamsters and building trades unions will be marching down
Michigan; other AFL-CIO members will be marching down Woodward.  The two lines
of march merge at the intersection of Woodward and Michigan.
    Besides union marchers, the parade will feature floats, bands and other
musical groups, drill teams, costumed figures, and vehicles used by union
members in their work.  This year's parade theme is "Union Pride Is A Rising
Tide!"
    When unionists are done marching, they can enjoy Laborfest, a festival
which will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Kern Block area of downtown
Detroit.  Laborfest attractions include:

    *  Musical entertainment including a concert by singer, songwriter and
recording artist Steve Earle who plays "heartland rock with a progressive
beat."
    *  Exhibits from UAW-GM, UAW-DaimlerChrysler and UAW-Ford, the latter
featuring a ride that simulates driving a 4x4 ATV.
    *  A nail-driving contest where people can race against union carpenters.
    *  Children's activities including a "moonwalk" tent.

    Laborfest is free and open to the public.  However, there is a charge for
food and beverages which will be handled through a ticket redemption system.