Newark, NJ, September 9, 2024 — On Friday, the annual Labor Day Parade in Newark drew a remarkable turnout this year, with unions and community leaders demonstrating their solidarity in an inspiring display of strength. Nearly 200 carpenters from the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS Carpenters Union) marched proudly, wearing vibrant yellow shirts emblazoned with the phrase “Carpenters Creating Change, Building America” in a strong showing of support for the Grand Marshal and one of their own, Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the EAS Carpenters Union, Anthony Abrantes. The parade began at City Hall, where remarks were delivered by such notable politicians as Newark City Mayor Ras Baraka, Senator Britnee N. Timberlake, Congressman Andy Kim, Congressman Rob Menendez, and Assemblywoman Tennille R. McCoy.

The parade was led by Grand Marshal Anthony Abrantes, a Newark native, and a highly respected Carpenters Union leader. Abrantes, who has risen through the ranks to become the Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the EAS Carpenters Union, leads a body that represents six states, Washington, D.C., 25 local unions, and more than 42,000 members. As the son of immigrant parents from Portugal and Spain, Abrantes credits his success to the union, and his presence as Grand Marshal was a deeply meaningful moment for members and their families.

Attendees included children of union members and seasoned union carpenters, some with over 60 years of service, reflecting the union’s generational impact on the community.

“As someone born in Newark, I’ve been honored for the meaningful work we do in labor. About ten years ago, I worked here in Newark, where we initiated a recruitment drive that brought carpenters from this community into the union,” Abrantes said. “Some of the people I recruited back then are here today, having transformed their lives.”

The march not only honored the legacy of organized labor but also highlighted the importance of union representation in today’s workforce. “Many of these people, from union leadership to rank-and-file membership, are carrying the middle class into the future. What we’ve achieved over the last several decades, and for the carpenters, at least 140 years, is an impactful change for individuals and communities, creating generational wealth that is evident even today,” said Abrantes.

The Carpenters Union has long advocated for worker rights, fair wages, and safer working conditions. Abrantes’ ascent within the union is a testament to the opportunities the union provides for its members, regardless of background.

About EAS Carpenters Union AEST Abrantes:

Anthony N. Abrantes serves as Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer (AEST) of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters and Vice Chairman of the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenter Technical Centers, among other roles within his union. He is a board member of several organizations, including Choose New Jersey, Building One America, and on the Executive Board of NJ AFL-CIO. He also serves on the Board of Trustees for both Montclair State University and Bloomfield College. In addition, Anthony holds the position of Vice Chairman at Progress 360 and is the President Emeritus of the Northwest Jersey Central Labor Council. His affiliations include membership in Tau Kappa Epsilon and the Pennsylvania Society. Most recently, he was appointed to the NJ Transit Board of Directors.