Washington, DC / Chicago / New York. This year’s Labor Day 2025 saw hundreds of “Workers Over Billionaires” rallies take place across the United States. However, as workers, unions, and community groups marched for fair wages, stronger labor rights, and protection of social safety nets.

Chicago Protests Against Federal Troops

In Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson strongly opposed the Trump administration’s plan to deploy federal troops to the city. They took that step as part of an immigration crackdown.

“No federal troops in the city of Chicago,” Johnson told the crowd at the Workers Over Billionaires rally. He later led chants of “No troops in Chicago” and “Invest in Chicago.” Protesters also gathered outside Trump Tower, holding posters and chanting “Lock him up.”

Nationwide Demonstrations

The rallies, organized by May Day Strong, AFL-CIO, and other labor groups, took place in New York, Los Angeles, Washington, DC, Houston, and smaller cities like Cleveland and Greensboro.

In New York City, hundreds gathered near Trump Tower. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joined demonstrators in Albany, calling labor unions the backbone of the American middle class.

In Washington, DC, nearly 1,000 residents participated in the “Freedom Run,” protesting the federal takeover of the city and mass layoffs of federal employees.

Los Angeles & Bay Area

In Los Angeles, thousands marched, followed by a free community picnic and live entertainment. In California’s Bay Area, residents formed a 17-mile human chain from Redwood City to Santa Clara as part of the nationwide action.

Houston Hotel Workers Strike

Meanwhile, more than 400 Hilton hotel workers in Houston walked off the job, beginning a nine-day strike organized by Unite Here Local 23. Workers are demanding a $23 per hour minimum wage, up from the current $16.50, marking the first strike in the union’s 25-year history.

Trump’s Labor Day Message

While protests took place nationwide, Donald Trump shared a message on Truth Social, posting a photo of himself with workers and writing: “Celebrating 250 years of THE AMERICAN WORKER. Happy Labor Day.”