Public Employee Press

DC 37 showed “Power through unity” as hundreds of members marched and cheered at the huge African American Day Parade in Harlem, Sept. 21. The annual parade has a 34-year tradition of color and creativity with marching bands, dancers, politicians, unions, fraternities and frolickers of all ages joining in the fun.

“African Americans have experienced a tremendous struggle from the time we first reached these shores,” said DC 37 Executive Director Lillian Roberts. “As trade unionists we know firsthand that unity and struggle can change bad situations to good. Today we celebrate our survival, our indelible culture and our vast contributions to this nation.”

As a Grand Marshall of this year’s parade, Ms. Roberts was at the helm of the two-mile long block party saluting the culture and rhythms of the African Diaspora.

The DC 37 Big Apple float breezed up Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard to the lilting pulse of the EZ Bizness Steel Band as members and leaders of numerous locals and the DC 37 Retirees Association celebrated with soul. The brilliant end-of-summer sun reflected in onlookers’ faces as they packed both sides of the broad thoroughfare to glimpse the exciting and energetic marchers.

“This year’s participation was greater than ever,” said Cynthia Chin-Marshall, co-chair of the DC 37 Black History Committee, which coordinated the union’s involvement in the event.

— Diane S. Williams