Labor Day, celebrating workers and their contributions, began during a period of swift U.S. industrial growth with limited worker rights. In the late 19th century, many Americans, especially those experiencing profound poverty and those who had recently immigrated were working 12 hours per day, six or seven days per week with little or no access to ventilation, hygiene and rest breaks. Shockingly, children as young as 5 years old were working in dangerous manual labor roles in mines and factories.
On September 5, 1882, 10,000 individuals chose to forgo their wages to rally from NYC’s city hall to Union Square, marking the debut of the Labor Day Parade. A violent confrontation between labor activists at the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company and Chicago law enforcement on May 4, 1886, resulted in the notorious Haymarket Riot. This event symbolized the battle for labor rights and influenced global May Day celebrations.
On May 11, 1894, the Pullman strike commenced, with workers challenging rail companies for better working conditions, regular hours, and fair pay. The strike resulted in hindering rail operations across the Midwest until around July 20th. On June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed an act into congress, establishing the first Monday in September as a national holiday, known as Labor Day.
Americans owe the creation of the 40-hour work week and the minimum wage during the Great Depression to a social worker—the nation’s first female Secretary of Labor and Social Work Pioneer Frances Perkins.
Today, social workers make up much of the workforce of Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), which was also created by social worker Dr. Dale Masi. Many companies offer these programs to help their employees deal with mental illness, stress, grief or to find childcare, legal assistance and other resources.
Modern activists still have ground to cover to achieve similar impact. As companies like Starbucks and Amazon witness successful activism, other industry influencers may follow. The main hurdle is converting successful campaigns into lasting worker representation.
The 1930s saw grassroots activists lay the foundation for leaders like Walter Reuther of the United Auto Workers. Established leaders, like John L. Lewis, offered resources and guidance. Today’s young activists require similar support from the labor movement to shape its future, whether through forming unions or other means like worker centers.
Modern labor unrest mirrors the 1933-1935 period, urging for reforms like the National Labor Relations Act. Contemporary efforts require updates to labor laws and newer worker representation methods. Policy changes will rely on workforce pressures, public interest groups, and some business leaders, though given legislative challenges, patience is needed.
In reflecting on the history of Labor Day, it becomes clear that the recognition of worker’s rights and well-being is not just a matter of ethical importance, but also of economic advantage. From its inception, this day symbolizes the value and power of the workforce.
As we move forward, the integration of employee wellness days, the embrace of flexible work schedules, and the prioritization of overall well-being have consistently showcased positive outcomes both in market performance and employee satisfaction. By upholding and advancing these principles, we not only honor the spirit of Labor Day, but also pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for all contributors.
Resources:
Learn More:
Why do We Celebrate Labor Day? What does it Mean? | PBS
Labor Activism – Industrial Labor – Research Guides at Harvard Library
National Labor Relations Act | National Labor Relations Board (nlrb.gov)
