MILWAUKEE — Labor Day is a time for celebrations around the country to highlight the efforts of union workers.

Milwaukee’s Laborfest was held at the Henry Maier Festival Park Monday. Labor unions and members of the Milwaukee Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO organized the event. Event leaders said it’s chance to show support for unions and the work they do on behalf of their members.

Before the celebration, union members participated in the annual Laborfest Parade. 

Richard Tremarello has participated in the parade for many years. He’s a professional french horn player.

“I’m part of the Milwaukee Musicians’ Association, Local 8 of the American Federation of Musicians,” Tremarello said. 

He said it’s a union he’s been a part of for nearly 30 years. 

“Today is our day, whether you’re a union member or not,” Tremarello said. “It’s a day for workers and it’s a time we get together and celebrate.”

Carl Norman also celebrated Labor Day at Laborfest. For the past 24 years, he’s been a member of the Teamsters 200 Union. 

“We’re coming out and enjoying the day,” Norman said. “We work so hard every year, 365 days a year ... Everybody is working hard. Trying to make a dollar. Trying to do this trying to do that. Just to come out and enjoy each other. I love seeing all the unions out here. I didn’t know we had so many unions in Wisconsin.” 

The parade leads up to the celebration at the Henry Maier Festival Park.

“Labor Day is just a reminder about the sacrifices of the people before us especially those in the 20th century people stood up for our wages and treatment and democracy in our county,” Tremarello said. “That [is what] it’s all about.”