This past week, we celebrated Labor Day. Each year, students and workers look forward to having a day off, but do we know why we have this day off? I am going to tell you about the history of Labor Day. Before it was a holiday, Labor Day was observed by labor activists throughout different states. This holiday was proposed in New Jersey all the way back in 1882, but Oregon was the first state to pass a law recognizing Labor Day on February 21, 1887. By the end of 1887, four more states had passed laws recognizing Labor Day as a holiday. On June 28, 1894, Congress declared Labor Day a national holiday. Nobody really knows who created Labor Day, but there is some serious speculation about it. Labor Day was created as a “nod” to the people who work hard everyday to create the things we use and see everyday. Some people speculate that it was actually created as a way to allow workers to have time with their families. The first Labor Day parade took place in New York City in 1882. New York City did celebrate Labor Day before it was recognized as a holiday. Most Americans would go on to celebrate Labor Day with parades, parties, and cookouts. Later on, speeches by prominent people would be introduced to the holiday, and people began to emphasize the impact laborers have on the world we live in. So, now, the nation pays tribute to the people who provide us with everything we have, the workers. So, what did you do for Labor Day? I hope you enjoyed your day off of school and work. I also hope you found something fun to do on your day off!
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