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Workers Over Billionaires: Labor Day Protest in Long Beach
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Long Beach is no stranger to protest, but this Labor Day, the message is louder and clearer than ever: “Workers Over Billionaires.” On September 1, 2025, residents will take to the streets at two major gathering points—411 W Ocean Blvd and 1331 Eubank Ave—to demand better wages, stronger labor protections, and a more equitable economy.
The demonstration, organized by a coalition of unions, grassroots organizers, and community advocates, isn’t just symbolic. It’s a coordinated response to escalating rent, stagnant wages, and the concentration of wealth among a small elite. Organizers say this year's protest aims to transform Labor Day from a holiday into a movement.
Growing Tensions in the Working Class
Long Beach, like many American cities, has seen widening income inequality over the past decade. While waterfront developments rise and luxury apartments open, many essential workers—from delivery drivers to grocery clerks—still struggle to afford rent.
“Labor Day has become a day off for some, but for others, it’s a reminder of being left behind,” said Dolores F., a local nurse who plans to speak at the protest. “We need policies that support working families—not billionaires padding their portfolios.”
The “Workers Over Billionaires” message reflects a broader frustration that’s been building across the country, but in Long Beach, the mix of port workers, service employees, and educators makes that tension feel especially local.
Two Locations, One Unified Voice
By staging the protest at both City Hall and near the Port of Long Beach, organizers are drawing a line between the halls of power and the engines of labor.
The downtown location at 411 W Ocean Blvd will feature speeches from union leaders, elected officials, and working-class residents. Meanwhile, the Eubank Avenue gathering at 1331—closer to the port and industrial zones—will amplify voices from the logistics and warehousing sectors, many of whom say they’ve been overlooked in policy conversations.
Both sites will march toward a shared rallying point later in the day, emphasizing solidarity across sectors.
Why Labor Day Still Matters
For some, Labor Day is a weekend of barbecues and back-to-school shopping. But for many Long Beach families, it’s a reminder of what’s at stake: paid leave, job safety, housing security, and respect.
With inflation still outpacing wage growth and union membership declining nationally, workers are seizing this moment to reframe the holiday’s purpose.
“There’s a growing sense that the system wasn’t built for us,” said Malik J., a dockworker and second-generation Long Beach resident. “This protest isn’t about tearing down—it’s about building something better.”
A National Movement With Local Roots
Across the U.S., similar Labor Day actions are gaining momentum—from Chicago to Oakland. But Long Beach’s event is uniquely situated. With its massive port, diverse labor force, and legacy of progressive activism, the city represents both the challenges and potential of the American worker.
Attendees can expect music, speakers, free water stations, and legal observers to ensure safety. Organizers are encouraging participants to bring signs, wear red, and use public transportation when possible.
Whether this protest marks a turning point or just another chapter remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Long Beach’s working class is ready to be heard.
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Workers Over Billionaires: Labor Day Protest |