Jack Layton honoured on Labour Day

Federal interim NDP leader Nycole Turmel, along with Sarah and Mike Layton march in the Labour Day parade on Queen St. West.

The Toronto Star:

Jack Layton’s son had a quick message to send to Canadians who paid respect to his father at this year’s Labour Day parade: “Thank you.”

Hundreds of people, many wearing union T-shirts and others pushing strollers, marched from downtown to the CNE in the parade dedicated to the late NDP leader who died of cancer last month.

Although none of the union groups marching at the parade shouted or chanted his name, a huge number of banners and placards carried Jack Layton’s name, pictures and parts of his favourite phrases.

Many were clad in orange T-shirts and orange scarves, official NDP colours. One medal that was worn by hundreds of marchers quoted the late NDP leader as saying, “Don’t let them tell you it can’t be done.”

Interim federal NDP leader Nycole Turmel and Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath also participated at the parade, where many names of upcoming provincial election candidates were on display.

Horwath said Layton worked very hard for everyday working people, not only to get justice in terms of workplace issues, but to really make a difference for families.

Mike Layton said he advocates for improved services for the people and optimism for the future because he believes that is what his father would have wanted him to do.

Continue reading here.