Labor Day is a federal holiday, and holiday's equal celebration, right? Well, yes and no. For over 125 years, Americans have been celebrating Labor Day, in honor of working people, on the first Monday of September. On this day, working people's achievements are recognized for having contributed to the social and economical growth of the United States. Let's not forget that the true purpose of this day is to honor and remember those who had to suffer under unsafe and unjust working conditions - and many who still do.
In observance of this holiday, many people gather their families and take a weekend getaway or plan a special BBQ. Although celebrations are wonderful, especially in times like these, we must know what we are celebrating exactly.
Labor Day Facts
1882 - The year it all started. Unions, consisting of at least 20,000 people, in NYC, had a parade to show support for all unions. They were not paid for this "day off" of celebration.
1894 - Labor Day became a holiday. President Cleveland signed an act that established it as a federal holiday - a day to be celebrated.
1916 - The eight-hour workday was created. Believe it or not, this was actually for the good of the workers. It regulated how many hours they spent at work.
97% of employers observe the holiday, meaning their employees have a full paid day off.
Now that you have some background on the history of Labor Day, you can decide how you want to observe or celebrate it. You, or most people you know, spend about 40 hours a week working hard. Reward yourself!
Ways to Celebrate
Sleep in! How often can you get a full 8 hours of sleep?
Boost those endorphins! Go for a nice jog or bike ride and get a load of those "feel-good hormones".
Make time for what you love to do. It's not every day you get some quiet time to read a good book or make your favorite meal.
Take that weekend trip or have a BBQ! Enjoy a nice family day.
Relax and RECHARGE :)
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