Organizing Columbus: Celebrating Labor and Frontline Workers at City Hall
- Rainbow_Rocks
- September 8, 2026
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- #ColumbusOhio, #DragIsArt, #LGBTQIA, #RainbowRocks, AFL-CIO, Central Ohio labor Council, City of Columbus Council, Councilman Rob Dorrans, Jamie Shoemaker, LGBTQIA+, Union
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Written and Photographed by LGBTQIA+ Independent News Reporter — Kyle Williams — Rainbow Rocks — RainbowRocks.space — September 8th, 2026
Labor Day weekend traditionally evokes images of backyard barbecues and extra time with family, but for a growing number of frontline workers across Central Ohio, the holiday serves as a vital reminder of an ongoing movement for workplace dignity, fair pay, and a collective voice.
A Historic Gathering in the City Council Chambers
On Friday, September 4 at noon, the Columbus City Council Chambers hosted “Organizing Columbus,” a luncheon, panel discussion, and celebration hosted by Council President Pro Tem Rob Dorans. The event brought together local elected officials, labor leaders, and workers from various industries to honor the deep roots of the labor movement and discuss the future of worker organization in the city.
Opening the event, Council President Pro Tem Dorans shared his personal connection to the labor movement, noting that he was born on a Saturday while his father was walking a picket line to protect healthcare benefits. Emphasizing the rich history of labor in Columbus—including the founding of the AFL-CIO—Dorans stressed that the movement must continue to look forward, support new organizing efforts, and push back against systemic attacks on workers’ rights.
Central Labor Council Executive Director Jamie Shoemaker followed with remarks highlighting the dedication of local labor leaders. Reflecting on her own background in a union family, Shoemaker emphasized that the fight for fair treatment, safety, and respect is an ongoing generational effort.
Perspectives from the Front Lines: The Panel Discussion
A central highlight of the afternoon was a panel discussion moderated by Jamie Shoemaker, featuring frontline workers who have recently led successful organizing drives across Columbus:
- Jude Varcoco (Columbus Metropolitan Library / CML United) discussed the unique challenges faced by library staff and the importance of ensuring that the people who run these vital community spaces have a genuine voice in their working conditions.
- Violet Musser (Jenny’s Ice Cream) spoke about the journey of organizing service workers, noting that every worker deserves dignity and fair pay regardless of their specific industry.
- Abby Gross-Close (Nationwide Children’s Hospital / Nationwide Nurses) shared the perspective of healthcare professionals, emphasizing that patient care and safety must always take precedence over corporate bottom lines.
- Ashby Daugherty (Gateway Film Center) highlighted how arts, entertainment, and venue staff came together to advocate for stability, safety, and respect in their workplaces.
Key Takeaways from the Movement
Throughout the panel, speakers shared hard-earned lessons from their organizing campaigns, emphasizing several core themes for anyone considering workplace action:
- The Power of Listening: Panelists stressed that organizing is fundamentally about listening to coworkers, building trust, and understanding each other’s daily struggles.
- Pushing Past Corporate Resistance: Several speakers noted that management pushback—ranging from aggressive anti-union messaging to expensive legal strategies—is common, but solidarity among peers helps workers weather the pressure.
- Sustaining Momentum: The panelists agreed that building a union requires immense patience, resilience, and open communication, reminding attendees that the fight does not end once a contract is signed.
As the luncheon concluded, participants were encouraged to continue supporting labor efforts throughout Columbus, ensuring that the movement continues to grow, thrive, and provide a collective voice for all working people.
