Every year, Americans celebrate Labor Day with a long weekend, barbecues, and time with family. But have you ever wondered why everyone gets a day off in the first place?
ILS students in Mr. Carlos Blanco’s math class recall him advising, “Guys, we have a long weekend this week,” but, the long weekend isn’t just about the break.
Labor Day is more than a long weekend or time off of school. It is a day to recognize and honor the workers who helped build and continue to shape the country. The way ILS students honor the workers is the pledge of allegiance.
World Languages Department Chair, Mr. Jesus Uriarte reminds students, “Let’s stand up for the pledge of allegiance.”
Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September. It became a federal holiday in 1894, but its history goes way back. During the late 1800s, many American workers had difficult jobs and worked long hours for low pay. Workers started to organize and protest for better working conditions, fair wages, and shorter workdays. Labor Day was created to recognize the contributions and achievements of these hard working laborers.
Today, Labor Day is a way to value the millions of people who work every day to keep communities running. Teachers educate students with everything they know and help them learn new things. Doctors and nurses care for patients who cannot care for themselves, construction workers build homes and roads, and farmers provide food for everyone. There are also countless other workers whose job may not always be noticed but are important to everyday lives.
Although many people now see it as a chance to relax, travel, or spend time with family, the holiday still has an important meaning. It reminds that workers have played a major role in building the United States
So, the next time you enjoy your day off on Labor Day, take a moment to think about what the holiday represents. It’s not simply just another day without school. It is a day to honor workers and recognize their work and remembering the history of the people who fought for better conditions in the workplace.
