Do You Know The Real Reason We Celebrate Labor Day?

Each year, on the first Monday of September, Americans celebrate Labor Day, which is an acknowledgment of "the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers”, according to the United States Department of Labor. Back in the 1800s, per History.com, “the average American worked 12-hour days and seven-day weeks in order to eke out a basic living”. Since the working conditions were unsafe and unsanitary while management treated all employees poorly, labor unions were created, and improvements followed. As outlined by Forbes.com, the efforts of labor unions to drive such change didn’t happen easily and were associated with all sorts of violence and chaos. It is by surviving such battles to achieve the better work environments that now exist where we can find reason to celebrate. We celebrate our “right-to-work” state where we have clean facilities and earn benefits.

This Labor Day, take a moment to reflect upon all the contributions workers have made to build up the strength, prosperity and well-being of the United States of America. Whether via labor unions, the efforts of groups with the same interests or simply individuals paving the way for a better situation, there are many and varied benefits that our workforce has which do not exist in other countries. No matter if you are at home, on vacation or laboring at work, you can help to honor American workers and our enhanced conditions. 

What are YOU doing today for your Labor Day holiday?