Dear Friend —

This Labor Day, the City of Long Beach celebrates and honors the contributions of everyone who has fought to build a more fair and just society. It was great to march this morning with City employees at the Harbor Area Labor Day parade. Workers are the backbone of our country, and it is crucial that we stand in solidarity with them in their fight for better pay, working conditions and equal rights in the workplace. 

The past three years have emphasized the critical role that so many workers play in our city and, as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it's more important than ever that we recognize the heroism and sacrifice so many people demonstrated each day to meet and overcome the challenges of the moment.

Labor Day is also a chance to honor the sacrifices of union members and those in the labor movement who risked their livelihoods and well-being to advocate for the rights of others — both here in Long Beach and across the country. Together we can learn from their example to continue building a society that values and works for everyone.

I hope that you can each join me in honoring the history and continuing the legacy of the labor movement — and I hope that each of you and your loved ones has an enjoyable, restful and safe holiday!

Thank you and Happy Labor Day, 

Mayor Robert Garcia