Holiday tradition continues in Auburn, New York, thanks to members of an AFSCME police union

What started as a holiday let-down became a powerful example of what AFSCME members can achieve when we take collective action.

Members of the Auburn Police Local 195 (Council 82) quickly responded after the City of Auburn, New York, cancelled this year’s holiday parade because of safety and staffing concerns.

When Local 195 President Michael Bufano contacted city officials for more information, he learned that the issue wasn’t safety at all. The event was cancelled because of the cost.

“For more than 35 years, the Auburn Holiday parade has been a cornerstone of our community. It’s a night when families come together, children’s eyes light up and the spirit of the season brings people together without division, fear and politics,” said Bufano, an Auburn police officer. “It’s a tradition rooted in joy, unity and pride.”

Within a few hours, members of Local 195 publicly committed to fundraising, sponsoring and doing whatever it takes to keep the annual parade going this year. The response from the community was overwhelming. 

The union’s Facebook post created a tidal wave of support from families, small businesses and organizations across Auburn. More than 148,000 people saw their message on social media.

“Our offer to take over the parade was driven by principle, not publicity,” Bufano explained. “We sought to preserve something that children, families, businesses and organizations look forward to every year.” 

Media outlets started picking up the story, with word spreading from local newspapers to TV stations in nearby Syracuse. Residents made their voices heard, and their message was clear: Auburn’s holiday tradition should continue.

Less than two hours after the union posted on Facebook, the city reversed its decision. The parade is officially back on, with no fundraising required. And Auburn’s police officers committed to working closely with command staff and city leadership to create a safe and heart-warming celebration everyone can enjoy.

Union members been flooded with messages of gratitude. It became a moment that showed this small Central New York city at its best.

“Being a city cop who lives in Auburn, this hit home for me,” Bufano concluded. “This is about the community we serve.”

Members of Local 195 expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming community support and they showed how the holiday spirit shines even brighter when we stand together.