On a holiday honoring the history and contributions of American workers, Newark-area demonstrators gathered in support of workers. Participants called for functioning schools, healthcare, housing, equal rights for all, and an end to attacks on immigrant workers and their families. With billionaires taking over government with the help of an openly corrupt president and his cronies, demonstrators reminded the public that:

The People Have the Power.

At the busy intersection of Christiana Road and Library Avenue, many drivers honked and waved in support. Organizers were especially proud of their volunteer peacekeepers, who used their training to prevent a determined heckler from escalating a confrontation. This is what democracy looks like.

Adding to the national tension was Trump’s recent declaration of a state of emergency and a military takeover of policing in Washington, D.C. On a day traditionally reserved for parades and picnics, similar Labor Day demonstrations took place in cities and towns across the nation.