Photo by Bruce Friedman
“If any man tells you he loves America, yet hates labor, he is a liar. If any man tells you he trusts America, yet fears labor, he is a fool.”
- Abraham Lincoln
It is a time to honor the hard work and dedication of the working people in America. On this day, we pay tribute to them for their sacrifices in improving our quality of life. We honor them for transforming our neighborhoods, for strengthening our economy and for contributing their efforts in the prosperity of our nation.
The idea of setting aside a day for America’s workers dates back to September 5, 1882, when 10,000 workers assembled in New York City to participate in the nation’s first Labor Day parade. By 1894, 31 states had created the holiday by legislative enactment, and on June 28, 1894, Congress made it a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories. This establishment of a special day to honor labor made a statement to the world about how America reveres working men and women and their roles in society.
Indeed, it is but proper that this special day has been set aside for us to salute the creators of our nation’s strength, freedom and leadership. All our workers deserve such a moment of tribute and therefore should enjoy a grand day off! Happy Labor Day!