The celebration of Labor Day has come to mean the unofficial end of summer: the last weekend for beach-going, barbecuing, and taking advantage of massive store-wide sales. Banish your summer whites, put away the picnic baskets, and stock up on school supplies. Summer’s over!
Established in 1894 under President Grover Cleveland, Labor Day has strayed far from its roots as a way to recognize American workers: their right to organize and unify into labor unions after a period of sometimes violent crackdowns against worker protests and their basic rights of fair pay and a reduction in work hours. Recently, former President Obama suggested that we “observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities that honor the contributions and resilience of working Americans.”
Let’s honor all who work–each other and ourselves! We are all connected–we should support each other and celebrate the contributions we all make to this life we share!
And enjoy your Labor Day!