By Dr. Jarrod Sadulski
Faculty Member, Criminal Justice
This year, we will celebrate Labor Day on Monday, September 5. It is a national holiday that celebrates American social and economic achievements made through the efforts of U.S. workers. In addition, Labor Day recognizes employee contributions to the strength and prosperity of America.
The History of Labor Day
According to the Department of Labor, the first law recognizing Labor Day as a holiday occurred in Oregon on February 21, 1887. It became a national holiday on June 28, 1894, when Congress passed an act that designated Labor Day as a national holiday on the first Monday of September each year.
According to the Department of Labor, labor in America has increased people’s standard of living. Labor Day is often celebrated with parades, fireworks, public gatherings, parties, and speeches that pay tribute to the strength, freedoms, and successes of American workers.
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The Contributions of American Workers
The American workplace has seen so many changes over the past 150 years. During the late 1800s at the height of the Industrial Revolution, it was common for workers to make a living by working 12-hour days seven days a week. Similarly, children as young as 5 or 6 years old worked in factories, mills and mines across the country.
However, the labor market has vastly improved since then. Labor laws have evolved over time as the result of thousands of Americans marching, protesting, and participating in strikes to promote fairness in employment and improved work conditions. In addition to honoring workers, Labor Day celebrates workers’ rights such as paid sick days, 40-hour workweeks, overtime benefits and fair working conditions.
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Labor Celebrations in Other Nations
America is not the only country to formally recognize the efforts of its labor force through a legal holiday. For example, Canada also celebrates Labor Day on the same day as the United States.
Similarly, European countries, China and other countries around the world celebrate May Day on the first day in May. May Day is a holiday that celebrates their workers and labor unions.
Labor Day is an important holiday. It provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the contributions of the workers who have helped shape America.
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