“There are people in this country, that work hard every day, and not for fame or fortune do they strive…”
By SWSM Staff Writers
Labor Day begins this weekend, and thanks to this holiday, most of us will enjoy a three-day weekend. For many Americans, particularly children and young adults, it represents the start of the back-to-school season. Many will celebrate with neighborhood BBQs and attend their community’s street parade or festival marking the end of the Summer.
Labor Day was first recognized by President Grover Cleveland in 1894 and signed into law to celebrate the achievements of the working American. In the late 1800’s many Americans were working 12-hour days and seven-day weeks, and just barely scraping by financially. Working conditions for all ages (including children) were poor—even harsh—especially for the poor and for immigrants. American workers at the time were feeling overworked, underpaid, and maybe worse – ignored.
Thank you to our farmers, factory workers, truck drivers, custodians, grocery store clerks, gas station attendants, cooks, waitresses, firemen, police officers, postal workers, teachers, sanitation workers, delivery service drivers, and health care workers who keep America running every day.
Whether you’re spending the day relaxing or participating in local events, remember that Labor Day is more than just a break from work—it’s a celebration of the value of hard work and the progress we’ve made, and continue to strive for, as a society. As the famous Alabama song “Forty Hour Week” goes:
“There are people in this country, that work hard every day, Not for fame or fortune do they strive. But the fruits of their labor, are worth more than their pay And it’s time a few of them were recognized.”
