Labor Day Honors American Workers. American labor has generated the most outstanding production capabilities the world has ever known.
What is Labor Day
Before it was a federal holiday, labor activists and individual states recognized labor day. Likewise, municipal ordinances were passed in 1885 and 1886, developing a movement to secure state legislation. The idea of a “workingmen’s holiday,” celebrated on the first Monday in September, caught on in other industrial centers across the country, and many states passed legislation recognizing it.
New York was the first state to introduce a bill. However, Oregon passed the first law recognizing Labor Day on February 21, 1887. Throughout 887, four more states – Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York – passed laws creating a Labor Day holiday. Connecticut, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania followed suit by the decade’s end. By 1894, another 23 states had adopted the holiday. On June 28, 1894, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September a legal holiday each year.
Celebrating American Workers
The Central Labor Union first celebrated American workers on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday a year later, on September 5, 1883.
American labor has raised the nation’s standard of living and contributed to the most significant production the world has ever known. The labor movement has brought us closer to realizing our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that America pays tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, and leadership – American workers.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: US Department of Labor; History
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