The Michigan Labor History Society hosted its annual Labor Day mobilization luncheon last week, a rousing event with calls to action and inspirational moments. The guest speaker of honor was Wayne Academic Union President Hayg Oshagan, who made the case for why greater society needs to defend higher education, since it is on the front lines of defending the right to free speech. Additionally, the United Way for Southeastern Michigan bestowed the Bernie Firestone Award to Eric McPherson, for his years of service and work with SMART ( International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers) Local 80.

The event also hosted speakers from Union Hall Arts Residency, MotorCities National Heritage Area, the Michigan AFL-CIO, as well as members of the MLHS speaking on our organization’s programming.

The MLHS would especially like to thank UAW Region 1A and its director, Mark DePaoli, for the hospitality and being gracious hosts for this event.