Well, it’s the first Monday in September, so that makes it
Labor Day! So what exactly does that mean? Other than an extra day off from
work or school, many people have no idea what the holiday is all about.
Honestly, I didn’t really know myself.
A federal holiday since 1894, Labor Day is a celebration of
the American worker. (You can read all about it at the History Channel’s
webpage https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/labor-day-1)
Promoted by the unions at a time when hours were long, wages were low, and
conditions were brutal, the idea was adopted by several states before becoming
a national holiday when it was signed into law by President Grover Cleveland.
Strikes and walkouts and protests had become increasingly common
(and violent) and Congress acted to appease the labor unions and honor the
working men and women of the country. It was a small gesture, but a meaningful
one that has lasted. Thankfully, the other issues have been improved upon as
well. Laws are in place to protect against the abuses that prompted the rise of
the unions long ago.
Today, most Americans just appreciate the break, the “unofficial
end of summer.” The older generation can remember starting school after
Labor Day, and the holiday also signaled the beginning of many fall sports’
seasons. Even fashion was affected – “no wearing white after Labor Day” –
right? Whatever the day means to you, most of us see it as a fresh start of
sorts. And don’t we need those on occasion?
But seriously, hats off to the hard-working Americans who
certainly deserve a day off now and then! So, enjoy the day and let’s remember
to pray for our country, today and always.
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