A Labor Of Love

It’s hard to believe we are already writing about the end of summer, but it officially (though probably not weather-wise) comes to an end on Sept. 4 – Labor Day. For many it means the last of barbecue season and back to school. But it really means much more.

The day celebrates the men and women of the 19th century who fought for workers’ rights and is the reason we have many of the workplace rights today, including a 40-hour work week, safe working conditions, paid time off and sick leave.

Sept. 5, 1882 is considered the country’s first Labor Day parade, organized in New York City when at least 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march through the streets in an event that ended with a picnic. However, it wasn’t until 1894 that the day was legally recognized as a national holiday by Congress.

In the years to follow, Labor Day has spawned sales (think cars and mattresses). There also are numerous events that take place including parades, concerts, car and motorcycle shows and much more.

Pittsburg, home to steelworkers, is believed to have the largest Labor Day event that includes floats, marching bands and of course handshaking, baby-kissing politicians.