The Importance of Labor Day
Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September, and though we can all enjoy the long weekend associated with the holiday, there’s more to Labor Day than just the unofficial end of summer. It’s a day to honor the contributions and sacrifices of workers throughout history and to reflect on the importance of our workers in upholding society. From doctors to Walmart employees, we rely on the labor of countless workers every single day.
The first Labor Day celebration took place September 2nd, 1882 in NYC. The 19th century was focused on drastically changing social norms and advancing technologically. While the Industrial Revolution led to thousands of new inventions for the general public to enjoy, it also led to grueling work conditions, long hours, and unsafe work environments. Worker rights hadn’t been properly established yet, and plenty of people were being exploited for their labor. Because of this, the labor movement emerged and brought about fair wages, safe work environments, and shorter hours.
Labor Day was a response to this. It became a day to not only celebrate and honor workers, but to fight for worker’s rights. The first event in NYC was so successful that in 1894, following a series of labor strikes and unrest, President Grover Cleveland signed a bill making Labor Day an official federal holiday.
The Significance of Labor Day Today
Though the original purpose of Labor Day was to celebrate the labor movement’s success, today it serves multiple important functions:
- Commemoration of Workers’ Achievements
Labor Day is a time to acknowledge and honor the critical role workers play in our society. Without them, nothing would run as it should. From construction workers who build our cities to healthcare professionals who nurse us back to health, we would be nowhere without the labor of ordinary citizens. This holiday serves as a reminder of their hard work and dedication, and allows us to appreciate the enormous strides worker’s rights have taken in the last hundred years.
2. Supporting Workers
We can help support and appreciate all kinds of workers by acknowledging their dedication. Small businesses, interns, and other less recognized professions deserve our appreciation as well. Buying locally is a good way to support small businesses like Crafted Cases, who pour hours of love and dedication into their work. Even if you can’t afford to support workers financially, giving them a thank you card and continuing to fight for workers’ rights goes a long way.
3. Family and Community Time
For many, Labor Day is also a chance to enjoy a well-deserved break with family and friends. Barbecues, picnics, and outdoor activities are common as people take advantage of the long weekend. This social aspect of the holiday reinforces the value of work-life balance and the importance of spending quality time with loved ones. It’s important to remember that part of the reason we have a work-life balance to take advantage of is because of the labor movement.
Next Labor Day, while enjoying time with your family and friends, remember the workers who uphold society everyday and the people who fought to ensure our labor isn’t exploited.