Have we forgotten the true meaning of Labor Day?

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The true meaning of Labor Day

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers.

The first Labor Day

In 1882 the first labor day occurred in New York City under the direction of city’s Central Labor Union. It was felt that workers were spending too many hours and days on the job.

Union organizers were interested in creating an event that would bring different types of workers together to meet each other and recognize their common interests.

The organizers had a large problem in that no government of company recognized the first Monday in September as a day off from work. The issue was solved temporarily by declaring a one-day strike in the city. All striking workers were expected to march in a parade and then eat and drink at a giant picnic afterwards.

It wasn’t until 1894 that Labor Day became a national holiday when Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September a legal holiday.

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One comment

  1. *The first Labor Day

    In 1882 the first labor day occurred in New York City under the direction of city’s Central Labor Union. It was felt that workers were spending too many hours and days on the job.*

    Makes you wonder how that very reason has been neglected in law vs. current work standards.

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