Labor Day was first celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York. In 1894, Grover Cleveland was trying for reconciliation between the feds and Labor after the disaster during the Pullman Strike that year where some workers were killed by federal military and US marshalls. (Kent State, anyone?) Labor Day as a national holiday was signed into law just six days after the end of the strike. Now all 50 states consider Labor Day a state holiday.
The form of celebration was supposed to be street parades to show "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations" followed by festivals for workers and their families. Speeches (groan) were added later as more emphasis was placed on the economic and civil significance of the holiday.
Now, Labor Day marks the end of the summer for most people, although schools go back in session in many locations in the middle of August. It's the last long weekend to travel for some. LD also marks the beginning of the football season and for awhile (1954-2004) the Southern 500 NASCAR race was held on Labor Day.
I think we need to keep the holiday but rename it "Summer's Over, Football's Finally Here, Let's Party" day. Hmmmmm. I may have something here.
Old Lady.. first of all, hope you're moving a little better...
ReplyDeleteI'm inclined to agree.. The Marine's cartoon said it well, as long as we work together. Some where along the line, Unions lost it.. they have actually become big business, with a captive customer base. Members have no real say... pay us or don't work