Happy Labor Day 2024! Have you ever wondered why we celebrate Labor Day?
Happy Labor Day 2024!
Why we celebrate Labor Day 2024
As far back as the 19th century in the United States, and at the same time as the Industrial Revolution here. labor unions began to form. Their focus was to fight for workers’ rights. These unions, as an example the American Federation of Labor, had banded together to keep laborers safe from being exploited. Their purpose was also to help gain legal protections. This eventually resulted in a huge win that many of us now take for granted – the forty hour work week.
Celebrating Labor Day as a holiday was the brainchild of American Federation of Labor’s Vice President, P.J. McGuire.
No matter what you do for work, this is the day we celebrate you and all of the workers who came before you!!!
Oregon became the first state to acknowledge the holiday in 1887. By 1894, thirty states were celebrating Labor Day. Later that same year President Grover Cleveland signed the holiday of Lavor Day into Federal law.
Most of us we enjoy celebrating the three day weekend holiday with our families and friends. But it is really important to remember what the holiday really stands for. Without the effort of the blue collar men and women of years gone by, we would not have the advantages and protections that we enjoy today.
However you celebrate the holiday, whether it’s at the beach, pool or backyard keep in mind what it is we are celebrating.
What’s more American than celebrating Labor Day with a backyard BBQ?
Steve and I, aka The Traveling Locavores, wish you and your family a very wonderful and safe Labor Day!!!
