Annual Labor Day event celebrates the rights of working families, Battle of Blair Mountain centennial

Racine, W.Va. – The 83rd^t Annual Labor Day Celebration honoring the men and women who fought for workers’ rights and benefits will take place on Monday, September 6 at John Slack Memorial Park in Racine.

The annual Labor Day event brings together members of working families to enjoy a day of festivities to celebrate the successes of organized labor in the United States over the past 131 years. Entertainment includes live music from local artists, a pig roast and picnic, and activities for the kids. The UMWA’s International President, Cecil E. Roberts, is this year’s featured keynote speaker.

“This day is about more than just gathering for fellowship, it is about taking the time to reflect and thank those who fought for the rights and benefits we enjoy today,” said Brian Lacy, of the United Mine Workers of America in West Virginia. “We are proud to stand side-by-side as we honor those hardworking people who support their families, their community and their state.”

The UMWA is also honoring the Centennial of the Battle of Blair Mountain. Throughout the weekend, more than 90+ members will have retraced the footsteps of those who marched 100 years ago.

“We march in 2021 to honor those 10,000 miners who in 1921 picked up their rifles and headed to Logan and Mingo Counties to free their brother miners there,” UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts said. “But we also march because many of the same conditions that led to Blair Mountain in 1921 are creeping back into our society.

This celebration of the American worker and the sacrifices that have been made to support them is held annually in Racine on Labor Day.

Activities are scheduled from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.