The first Monday in September is Labor Day.  Most of us think it’s another holiday that we don’t have to work, but the origins of Labor Day still ring true today, 129 years later.  Labor Day is the creation of the labor movement of the 1880’s and it is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of “American” workers.  It is meant to serve as a day of appreciation and remembrance to all the contributions workers have made to the strength and prosperity of our nation.

Please take the time today to reflect on the struggles that unions are currently facing in states like Michigan, Florida, and Wisconsin as well as the workers that are generally not recognized or respected today like our farm workers in the field or workers in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Give thanks to the Braceros that helped America achieve it’s economic prosperity from the 1940s-1960s. Surely, they didn’t get Labor Day off and workers today are still working their 10-12 hour shifts. It is important to reflect on how far we’ve come as a nation to understand the path that is yet to come before us with new battles for our working class families. Bankruptcy, foreclosures, anti-health care, anti-union and anti-immigrant legislation have taken a toll on our working class communities and they need our support and appreciation now more than ever. Support your local unions, farmers, and small businesses and stand up for workers rights and farm workers in your state.  Take the time to appreciate the work that is done on a daily basis so that we can live a comfortable life.  America’s prosperity stands on the shoulders of “immigrant-American” labor.

KVIE (PBS) Los Braceros: Strong Arms to Aid the U.S.

 History of Labor Unions

History of Labor Day

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