Public Employee Press

Union Proud at 46th annual Harlem parade

By DIANE S. WILLIAMS

A large contingent of “Union Proud” DC 37 members turned out for Harlem’s biggest block party, the 46th annual African American Day Parade, on Sept. 20.

The DC 37 Green Machine float, with members from Locals 371, 372, 420, 1113, 1549, the Retirees Association and other locals, marched under an azure sky to entertain thousands of parade goers from across the city and around the globe who gathered to celebrate African heritage, culture and achievement.

This year’s grand marshals included Mayor Bill de Blasio, City Comptroller Scott Stringer, state Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, who is a former DC 37 member, celebrity chef and Harlem’s own Melba Wilson, and radio host Tom Joyner.

The parade coordinators also recognized Local 372 President Shaun Francois I with a leadership award. Black History Committee Chair and Local 1113 President Deborah Pitts and Program Director Frances Curtis coordinated DC 37’s participation.

A DC 37 stilt walker, prancing drill teams and candy-colored clowns joined dozens of labor unions, a cadre of politicians and Black fraternities and sororities as deejays and drumlines swayed the crowds along Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard, from 110th to 136th streets. It was a lively and joyous celebration with dashikis, dance and music from R&B and ’70s funk to Caribbean soca and old-skool hip hop.

The African American Day Parade, a cultural staple since 1969, is organized by DC 37 activists retirees Abe Snyder and Arlene Tuff and showcases the rich history and achievements of people of the African Diaspora.