Labor Day on first Monday of every September recognizes the men and women who labor to build this country. Through a time-honored tradition with roots in the coordinated efforts of the labor movement of the 1800s, we salute the American workforce.

Since the founding of the United States, the country has relied on its workforce for its infrastructure. From its streets and buildings to its transportation and security, the nation runs on labor. The labor of what we create, build and harvest fuels our education and inspires our dreams. 

This National Day also signals the official end of summer. Those who work hard, need time to play, too. With the school year starting and summer winding down, the long weekend beckons. They use the extra day earned to spend with families and catch some R&R. Some will explore cities while others will seek outdoor adventure. No matter where it’s spent, it’s well earned. 

Try our Greek Turkey burgers, No-Fail Fresca Sangria, for your celebration. Try some of our other great recipes here.

So if enjoying a last mini vacation, football game, parade, or barbeque, remember all the hard work the American worker has put into the lives we currently enjoy. Take a moment to remember all those teachers, doctors, road crews, miners, steel and auto industry, manufacturing, blue-collar, white-collar and everything in between that have given to the American economy and our way of life.

HISTORY OF LABOR DAY

On September 5, 1882, Labor Day first honored workers in New York City. The observance later moved to the first Monday in September in 1884. However, the observance wasn’t officially recognized by any government entity until 1885 when a municipal ordinance was passed. Interestingly, Oregon recognized the day in 1887 before New York state’s bill passed. As more states recognized the observance, its popularity grew. Then, in 1894, Congress declared the day to be a national observance. 

HOW TO OBSERVE LABOR DAY

Many families spend Labor Day weekend on vacation. They pack the campgrounds full or explore tourist towns for one last hurrah! As you celebrate this day, consider and appreciate your hard work and how it has added to the well-being and prosperity of our country. If you must see them, be extra nice to those who don’t get the holidays some of us do. Medical, nurses and health care, all first responders, a lot of retail workers and any others who still have to work today.  Use #LaborDay to post on social media.